Gilded Pleasures
20th July - 31st August 2024
We all need a little light in our lives during turbulent times. As artists and creatives, we take sanctuary in exploring the beauty of the natural world. Investigating the interesting diversity of our surroundings. We have selected 8 artists whose jewellery is evocative of natural wonder.
Kate Bajic is interested in lichen for their incredible aesthetic, also researching the role they play in ecology.
We appreciate the simple pleasures of admiring their delicacy of form and her choice of gemstone, the dendritic agate, with its lace like branches.
We take a flight of fancy with Julie Usel, who from her home in Switzerland creates these silken plumage neckpieces with elements of sewn silver and gilded edges. They must be seen to be believed as the shimmering silks have been carefully shaped in to curved petals that catch the light. Surprising colour combinations with elements of neon add to the dramatic effect.
Jade Mellor is a new gallery favourite. Her talent for textures is taken from in-depth research of the caddis fly larvae, who builds its cosy protective armour from leaf litter. These tiny nest-like structures are translated as glittering bronze and silver medallions that are a sensory pleasure, every surface burnished to a soft finish. Recently featured in ‘Vanity Fair’ as a one to watch, we welcome the sculpted bronzed treasures that can be mistaken for solid gold but without the hefty price tag.
Susan Macleod sources ocean inspired range of gemstones, often featuring teal and forest tourmalines combined with azure opals. Using the richest gold vermeil her settings are crafted from hand forged petals and handmade chain. Each hammer mark thoughtfully applied and the organic gemstone shapes mean every piece is unique.
We have been lucky enough to receive a small group of new jewels from Poppy Dandiya who needs no introduction. We expect that you will be racing in to see his wonderful group of planished treasure. In particular a spectacular (huge) one of a kind rose-cut diamond and dreamy aquamarine set in ancient styles.
Blanka Sperkova, We feature 4 newly arrived wire knitted necklaces with captured natural elements of shells pebbles and sea glass. One-of-a-kind conversation pieces that could be as beautiful framed as worn. Blanka has focused in on oceanic themes, which perfectly suit the sparkle of her delicate woven style. The lightness of her creations is reminiscent of sunlight on water.
New to the gallery, Helen Shere puts the gilding in gilded pleasures. Using roll printing techniques to mirror falling leaves, seed pods and cobble stones. They fit beautifully into our Yorkshire surroundings. Made with such warmth and love so that each detail can be admired.
Adele Taylor’s newest colour palette is inspired by volcanic landscapes; with soft grey diamonds and yellow rose-cut sapphires. These geological textures are recreated through softly forged shapes in oxidised silver with highlights of gold.
