ANNA WALES
My Jewellery is designed to create a powerful visual impact along with an enticing tactility. It focuses on the combination of felt and silver, or of oxidized silver with polished precious metals arranged to form stark contrasts or subtle transformations throughout a singular piece.
I specialised in textiles on my art foundation course at Brighton City College. I then went on to study Jewellery at Middlesex University where we were encouraged to explore and experiment with a range of materials. I found it only natural to continue using textiles, particularly felt, alongside my newly discovered enjoyment of working with metals. This was followed by a years residency at the fantastic Bishopsland Workshop, which helps new graduates bridge the gap between the bubble of University life and the realities of self employment. I moved back to London in September 2008 where I continue to make my own work.
Much of my inspiration is drawn from the act of making itself. As I watch one piece emerge, new ideas begin to bloom, often through looking at individual elements or by playing with the materials. Whilst a lot of my work references natural and organic forms I am not aware of being directly influenced by these objects. More the pieces themselves develop and grow as plants do. I constantly try to return to my original themes and set out to ensure each piece is aesthetically distinct, pleasingly tactile, and enjoyable to wear.