Sofia Kemm Jewellery Design

Michelle Lowe - Holder flocked jewellery

2011-10-07T16:10:00.000-07:00

I would love to learn how to Flock! I know the fashion has been around for quite a while now but I find Im still drawn to the texture and colour spread of flocking - just look at these wonderful pieces by Michelle Lowe - Holder, an accessories designer that uses second hand ewellery items for her range of flocked jewels. She trawls the charity shops to find unique pieces that with a bit of electrostatic care are turned into deliciously colourd and fantastically modern,brand new pieces of jewellery! Check out her blog where you can find out more and see her newest range of folded and pleated accessories using sustainable materials - really inspiring!

Flocking is so at the top of my to try List!

Magic Garden Photography Series

2011-09-29T06:20:00.001-07:00

Here is the first photo to start my new Magic Garden Album, where I will be posting pics with the theme of an enchanted garden, all through the seasons- Looking forward to building up a lovely collection!

Vintage treasure hunting for new preloved range

2011-09-25T10:00:00.000-07:00

Here is one of the pieces of vintage costume jewellery that I plan to clean, refurbish, polish, re-string and whatever else may be necessary to take them back to their former glory.

There is something very special about old things, and finding items that I can breath new life into and hopefully find new homes for is something I definitely look forward to doing.

In the mean time my first addition is plated base- metal, bib style neck piece set with circular stamped "medallions" and facet cut black glass discs.Salvaged from a car boot sale, it really is a stunning find and I look forward to doing something lovely with it.

Black and white pics Im afraid as I had to take these with my iphone and these are the best I could do to show off the detail.

2011-09-24T03:59:00.001-07:00

Have Just set up my new signiture with the help of Yoboy the blogger addict from southernspeakers.net

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

The fruits of yesterday's labour

2011-09-19T04:54:00.000-07:00

I took some pics this morning of the ink drawings I did yesterday, once again I am loving the cobalt blue, need to get on to some watercolouring efforts..
These doodles are the result of my explorations of the Portuguese "azulejo" these blue and white tiles are a typical aspect of Portuguese culture and have been produced without interuption for five centuries, they were applied to walls, floors and even ceilings and covered everything from houses and palaces to churches.
The area I am most interested in is "Aves e Ramagens" - Birds and Branches, a style that became popular between 1650 and 1680. These designs were influenced by the representations on printed textiles imported from India that depicted Hindu symbols, flowers, animals and birds.
At this time the trend for the Dutch blue and white Delft style was also introduced to Portugal, this trend became so popular it never left and rooted itself so deeply in the way the Portuguese azuleijo was made and designed.
More on this to follow I am sure but for now..... my doodles.

Putting pencil & ink to paper

2011-09-18T13:55:00.000-07:00

Today I went out and bought myself a new sketch book journal and some new art supplies ( all my old goodies are still packed up back home in S.A). Armed with watercolour pencils, indigo ink, black roller ball pens and the hope of reanimating me lack luster creativity I set to work.
Some sketches of a few intriguing owls developed - not sure what direction that is going in but best not to discourage my first attempts.....
and worked on some indigo blue doodles - loving the cobalt blue, its so fresh and clean when set against white.
Pics to follow.... will take some in the morning light.
In the mean time I have lots to do on this quest of revitalizing my old self, a list as long as my arm!

When the objective is Adornment

2011-09-17T16:49:00.000-07:00

When is too much, enough? and too little not enough?
Starting at the very begining and asking questions like what use we have for any form of adornment and picking up where I left off in terms of my B-Tech research, I have settled near or around the topic of folk art - a term I use as loosely as I am allowed to.
According to that great source of quick modern referencing Wikipedia (insert my old course lecturer's gasp of despair here) folk art "encompasses art produced from an indigenous culture or by peasants or other laboring tradespeople. In contrast to fine art, folk art is primarily utilitarian and decorative rather than purely aesthetic."
With these thoughts in mind I am exploring the links elaborately detailed art has with folklore and storytelling, with my own heritage and its goldsmithing techniques and yet again looking to the pages of history to help me better understand my ever changing design style.
One giant thought stands out in my mind already and that is that in my past work, I was persuing an almost selfish aesthetic where I created jewellery with no real intrinsic value other that its classic beauty.
If I am to touch on the topic of folk art, I already have the task of exploring and creating with a deeper meaning and use of the object in mind....

Just a few notes on the thoughts that are swimming around in my head..... and I welcome them.

I heart Folk Art

2011-06-06T11:03:00.001-07:00

Just had to post a picture of this fantastic folk art inspired collage painting by Karla Gerard.

Im starting to notice my growing attraction towards this folk art style and the beauty in its simplicity and naivete....

Darkwood&Daranda

2011-06-06T11:01:00.001-07:00

Darkwood&Daranda II by Sofia Kemm on Polyvore.com

Bird Stand Tree Vine Silhouette clip art Vector clip art - Free vector...
all-free-download.com

Russian Ornament Blue

2011-06-06T10:03:00.001-07:00

Russian ornament "Blue"

2011-06-06T09:58:00.000-07:00

Purple Passion

2011-01-31T07:25:00.001-08:00

Purple Passion by Sofia Kemm featuring flower brooches

Bonnie Beauty

2011-01-31T03:01:00.001-08:00

Bonnie Beauty by Sofia Kemm featuring a beaded cross necklace

Switzerland in the Snow!

2010-10-13T08:54:00.000-07:00

Im so excited for my move to Switzerland next month!Things are very busy this side of the equator, with packing and decieding what to take with!!!
I took this picture last year in Scahffhausen around christmas time and i look forward to visiting this spot under a tree very soon!

2010-10-11T23:37:00.000-07:00

I have just come across these gorgeouse images from Anni Arts printable crafts, there is an entire range of beautiful cards, notelets, labels, packets etc for you to purchase and print yourself!
I love the Delft Blue patterened Anni Arts Bird!

House Keeping...........

2010-10-01T03:36:00.001-07:00

I am currently re organising my Blog into the various new sections shown above...........
Please excuse the empty spaces, they will be filled shortly!

New Beginings........ another layer peeled back

2010-09-05T13:56:00.000-07:00

Change is always good.
Change is always welcome.
There hasn't been enough change in my journey lately.
In fact my journey has come to a complete standstill, hence the shocking scarcity of posts. So much lost, that was never recorded, so much lived that was never photographed.
So I pick up not where I left off but where I am today.......

My 1st attempts...

2010-02-25T02:18:00.000-08:00

Find me on Polyvore

Polyvore Sets 3 - Wedding Dreams of Flowers Texture and Romance.... ofcourse!

2010-02-25T01:16:00.000-08:00

On My Wedding Day! by Aserdna77 featuring Dorothy Perkins jewelry

Items in this set:
Charlotte Russe - Sparkle Tulle Dress, $40
Lace Tiered Bolero, 38 GBP
rsvp Ivana (Champagne Satin) - Bridal Shoes, $1,000
Dune Shoes : Ladies accessories - Bags - Wedding
Pearl rope necklace, 15 GBP

Polyvore Sets 2 -Garden Wedding Romance

2010-02-25T01:09:00.000-08:00

wedding by ♥yaizota♥ featuring Vintage Collection jewelry

Polyvore Sets 1-Wedding Grace, Style and Love

2010-02-25T01:04:00.000-08:00

Forever & Always by Auby featuring Badgley Mischka shoes

Items in this set:
Monsoon Accessorize - Olivia Dress, 200 GBP
Badgley Mischka Randall, $200
The Diva Sterling Silver CZ Wedding Band, $30
Vintage Crystal and Pearl Bracelet - Bridal - Bracelets - Carolee.com, $45
SouthSea Pearl & Diamond Drop Earrings

Like opening an Old Book again....

2010-02-25T00:46:00.000-08:00

My little blog is just as I left it and more than a year of neglect has left it in need of an overhaul!Feel like doing a bit of redecorating!But for now i will grace this page with some beautiful pics of whats inspiring me to quit my job and go back to manufacturing jewellery full time!

Polyvore Sets are the most amazing tools for design and there are tons of talented individuals out there sharing their sets - getting it right every time!
Enjoy! I do!

Pottering in the Rose Garden....

2009-01-19T12:40:00.001-08:00

Cant believe we are so far into the month of January!
Well the festive season is truly over and everything is settling back into routine Im back in the studio working on mt new collection.... All i have right now are test pieces but soon soon Ill have some pics of what Im getting up to on the bench!

2009 seems to be bringing me lots of inspiring ideas and thoughts and I hope I can get going with them all,I have a busy 3 months ahead of me as I plan to stock another 4 shops and create a collaborative range with my friend and fashion designer Kathrin Kidger for the July as well as for Durban Fashion Week! I may just need to hire a little "elf" to help me out with all that needs to be done!

I spent yesterday in the garden and came in relaxed and inspired, it was so much fun taking photos of all the residents of my little rose garden as u can see I got up close and personal with the ones that weren't shy!
One of my new years resolutions is to take better care of it and spend more "me" time pottering about in it.It does need some attention I admit!

Have a good week all!
In 2009 I look forward to reading and exploring our wonderful world of blogging!

XOXO
Sofia

Pottering in the Rose Garden....

2009-01-19T12:35:00.000-08:00

A post Christmas note.....

2008-12-28T23:04:00.000-08:00

Its been so long since I last blogged I hardly know what to say!
I have finally finished my degree and what a long haul that has been!I had my final show in November and then got busy with some commissions etc, so blogging was left out for a while... but Im back and will soon be my old self again.I just needed time out to relax and fall out of the busy, fast paced routine I had going towards the end of the year.
Christmas was fantastic and I hope yours was wonderful too!

Above is a close up of my favourite decoration ! who can resist a gold glitter rocking horse!
Back soon!
XX
S

Carla Nuis.... pierced, patterned wonders

2008-10-22T05:57:00.000-07:00

One of the first designers that I found I could identify with was Carla Nuis, her exciting, intricate gold, silver and bronze designs are based on transforming the perception one has of decorative ornament in general. “ My approach brakes with the traditional idea of ornamentation being a supplementary matter “.
Carla chooses to enhance the intricate delicacy of her designs by transforming the patterns into openwork three dimensional jewellery objects that suggest the historic tradition of filigree.

COMPARISON TO MY WORK
I found this designers work at a time when it was necessary to explore what others do in the same field, it was wonderful to see the similarities my work had with such a well known cutting edge artist of the jewellery design field and although Carla’s work is the result of a complex process of computer aided design and laser cutting (adding a more delicate level to her work ) and mine is created through the process of casting and piercing by hand we have both come up with a design that is very similar if not the same.

I heart Tim Walker.....

2008-10-22T05:10:00.000-07:00

A few posts ago I mentioned how much I love Tim Walker's photography I have since found out more about him,( as my collaboration with Reine by Kathrin Kidger is in two weeks time).

INSPIRATION AND SETTING

The inspiration for these special window’s to another world is drawn from almost every aspect of his life, he keeps a sketch book of words, collages and images that make an impact on him and he draws his inspiration from this impromptu catalogue to create “ a moment that is real in an unreal environment “.
I enjoy the type of dramatic feminine stage he sets and one of my projects next year will be to create a catalogue were my own jewellery is set in this kind of histrionic ambient. It’s so easy to tumble into the special world he creates full of notions of childhood stories, memories and fantasy.

How do you Do ?!

2008-10-14T15:49:00.000-07:00

Tonight whilst browsing my blog, sorting out what posts I can use in my RR (only 3 weeks to go!) and yes ! I am feeling the stress! I clicked on my feedjit and remembered that lately Ive seen quite a few direct arrivals on my blog! Which is so exciting!Whoever you are, Welcome! Make yourself a cup of tea and get comfortable!
I've been blogging for a while now and although I've a made a couple of contacts I would love more! To get to know inspiring, creative individuals that want to share their thoughts, opinions and work.

So to all of you DIRECT ARRIVALS ( yes New York New York/ Victoria British Columbia/ Fort Worth Texas / London LOndon and Portland Maine!, next time you drop by, introduce yourself!
It could be the beginning of a long and creative FRIENDSHIP!

xoxo
S.

Plodding along.....

2008-10-12T09:09:00.000-07:00

I'm alive!
I haven't deserted my little blog just yet but there has been so much on the go, I'm not managing to keep up with my posts.I actually have so much to blog about I don't know where to start, last Monday I moved into my new studio space at Euforia.
A great shopping experience all under the roof of a Victorian House with the different rooms being outlets for different shops. Euforia's concept is to create a space for young and existing designers in Durban to market their work and also to introduce a culture of street markets. Funky labels include Soulskin, Miss Moneypenny, Nicky Savage Jewellery and Black Pepper. The idea has expanded to incorporate a 2nd hand book store called Last Chance Books as well as a Deli with lots of yummy treats! All in 1 big house!!! and at the back is my lovely new work space that I am renting from Nicky (its her workshop) So nice to be with other people as I'm not used to working alone and Ive heard that it takes some getting used to!
Will take some pics tom and post them for u all to see.I love it, the light is amazing, the space is amazing everything is organized and happy! I'm happy!At the same time as all this is going on I am writing my RR which is going well, sometimes slow but all in all it not that tough!

Am also working on new bits and pieces for my next showing that I some how have to fit in at the end of the month as well as my final exhibition for Tech which is in the 1st week of November !
Never been one to work well under pressure, am hoping I can keep the wheels from falling off just a little bit longer!
Times are changing and I guess I must change with them!

I can't blog without mentioning the alarming crisis the world financial markets are going through and all the implications that we all could possibly face, especially as mine is a luxury product! Times are tough but luckily South Africa has not been affected too much by the turmoil ( Political and Social crisis happen daily in our country, we have our own set of problems)
I watch the news in anticipation of the next big plummet but I hope the world can turn the corner very soon!For my sake and yours!As young entrepreneurs we can only pay attention and stay positive!

XXX
S.

Sofia Antonovich

2008-09-24T23:17:00.000-07:00

I have also just come across Sofia Antonovich's wonderful vinyl decals, they are available in many styles and colours but I like the old fashioned ones of French imperial furniture, picture frames and chandeliers!
U can find her at sofiaantonovich although when u click the link the page doesn't load so just google her images and they come up.
I found her whilst searching for images of silhouettes for my final year exhibition in November ..we each set up our work in its own environment and i want to paint the silhouettes of a chandelier and some photo frames on the wall. A piece of jewellery will "sit" in each frame.
I really enjoy the modern \ old fashioned mixing up of references that these silhouettes create and the use of strong bold colour whether it be black or pink really makes an impact! The idea is so current and fashionable, I wish I could fill my flat with them!!and am so glad with the idea of painting the images as the actual items (frames) would be kind of fussy and of course I would never be able to hang a chandelier!!!
So inspired!

I love, love, love, LOVE....

2008-09-24T03:09:00.000-07:00

Masha Dyans gorgeous, whimsical,fairytail like notecards and prints!I WANT them all, can just picture a set of two framed beautifully in my future studio or if I had them right now.... my hallway!
Oh Bliss!I could look through her windows into a magical water colour world forever....

There are so many to choose from, I dont know how to...
Unfrtunately I cant post any pics of her work but check out her website and let me know how much u love her images...
Hmmmmmm..... so glad christmas is coming!

Developing a web presence...... My Etsy Shop

2008-09-21T03:01:00.000-07:00

I've just set up shop and am so excited!I know you all know what Etsy is but some may not....
www.etsy.com is the online marketplace for buying and selling all things handmade, from jewellery to candles, needlework to woodwork, it’s in one place, connecting buyers with independent creators and shop owners to find “ the very best “ in handmade, vintage finds and supplies.
Once you sign up ( free of charge ) and start your shop, your given a domain name like sofiakemm.etsy.com that opens up to your own page on Etsy that you can brand and customize.

It’s really easy to set up and a good tool for networking and getting your name or product online, in short it’s basically developing a web presence, which is necessary in order to be taken seriously in the online / blogging community.

Pls click my shop on the left to visit!

Sam Browns Food&Fashion Show

2008-09-21T02:10:00.000-07:00

I have had so much going on that finding time to post and do a little blog spring cleaning has not been easy!
But Im here and have been the whole weekend setting up shop over at etsy which Ill post about later, as well as organizing my Flickr page which I am soooo excited about!
But all that is for later, first I want to share with u the event I did last Tuesday with the stunning Lisa Williams, owner of Sam Browns, a great restaurant at Gateway.They had a ladies night with fabulous food, fashion and of course JEWELLERY!

The clothes were from Jess of JLT Design, she does lovely, feminine, day wear and handbags, My collection of jewellery and her clothes were worn by models that mingled in between the tables, where the ladies could view the items on sale up closely whilst sipping fresh fruit vodka cocktails.
Later on during their 4 course meal I set up a showcase of goodies and made a few sales.
The event proved to be quite a success, considering it was our first one,Im sure we will get better and better!

The honour of Heirlooms...

2008-09-09T02:21:00.000-07:00

As I said in my last post, I have been thinking a lot lately about the word “Heirloom” and how it applies to my work.

According to Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, (1913 edition)
Heirloom is :
Heir"loom`\, n. [Heir + loom, in its earlier sense of implement, tool. Any furniture, movable, or personal chattel, which by law or special custom descends to the heir along with the inheritance; any piece of personal property that has been in a family for several generations

In popular usage, an heirloom is something, perhaps an antique, that has been passed down for generations through family members and in the strictest sense would be passed down by family custom, not by settlement..

I really love the idea of something special being passed down in a family through succeeding generations and in this way becoming more dear, through time and common ownership of the item than it was to the first owner.
The concept of a shared possession thats value is increased due to this process as well as the act itself of inheriting the item that once belonged to a distant ancestor is truly magical and quite comforting to me...I really enjoy the way this process can allow you a small glimpse of people that have lived, laughed, loved and died many, many years before you were born.

From a personal point of view, I like the idea of having things that once belonged to someone else as long as I know the story of them. For instance my mother has - inherited a large wooden vanity case lined with midnight blue velvet that is just beautiful, its filled with crystal bottles that were once used to keep creams and ointments, it has a special compartment for a hairbrush (missing), comb and hand mirror as well as another secret compartment tray for hiding jewellery. Its a travel case and boy has it travelled! It was made in England and brought to South Africa with a few stops along the way no doubt, by a Mrs Williams who’s husband was a Magistrate here in Natal in the 1890’s, she used to travel all over Natal with her husband, in those days any journey was long, hard and dirty.
This Mrs Williams is absolutely no relation of mine or my mothers, her most prized possessions landed up being inherited by my great aunt who’s husband inherited them from his great aunt. Its wonderful how this kind of cross pollination of cultures, lives and indeed Era’s can affect people that live hundreds of years apart.

“Woe to him whose daring hand profanes The honored heirlooms of his ancestors.” --Moir.

Previously I have attached key words such as Beauty, preciousness, treasure and history or old world charm to my work but I think heirloom is fast becoming a near perfect fit to the jewels that I make....perhaps with some sort of modern take on the word it would explain itself better. My jewellery is no where near the same quality of workmanship, style or technique as the great master goldsmiths of the past but I would like each piece to hint at the feeling one would have when wearing such remarkably crafted jewels. The feeling of old world charm wrapped up in a piece of jewellery made in the 21 century.

XX
S.

Topaz blu Sea ....Citrine yellow Sun...

2008-09-05T23:09:00.000-07:00

Okay.... so Ive been neglecting my little blog for a week or so.. but the lovely turquoise sea and beautiful warm sun on my skin has proven too much of a distraction.....I have been thinking a lot about my business, my blog and my image so when I get my head around those thoughts I post my conclusions... or should I say questions??

Have also been spending time thinking about the word Heirloom and how it applies to my kind of work, have always enjoyed the concept of jewel,preciousness but I think heirloom is a lovely word, as it implies the handing down from generation to generation of a treasured possession, I like the beauty and comfort of that act.

Am off to enjoy the rest of my stay at the Royal Palm in Mauritius!
will blog soon
S.
XX

Location, location,location....

2008-08-27T03:52:00.000-07:00

I just cant get enough of these stunning pictures taken by Vogue photographer Tim Walker, they are so beautiful, feminine and theatrical. I would love my photos to be like these, although perhaps a little less grand!

Click here to see a quick clip of Tim's thoughts on " Whats Inside Vogue? "

We are in the process of organizing a photographer, etc and things are looking quite positive but it may take a while to get organized and decided on. Haven’t found a location yet but was wanting to go take a look around the Durban Botanical Gardens as I seem to remember there being a thickish sort of Frangapany tree “Forest” in one corner of the gardens and as its winter now the trees shouldn’t have any leaves so it would kinda look like a forest of bare grey trees..... As outside can be lovely but comes with a whole range of problems such as weather, light, etc. Im not sure if this will be suitable, will have to go check it out.

Heaven made of Metal!!!! and Again!

2008-08-27T03:26:00.000-07:00

This talented and super inspiring jewellery designer also from Glasgow, Scotland was the person that inspired me to Blog,when I found her amazing and well written blog last year,I thought, I want That!I want to be a part of that world!!
So a year later thanks to Abigail Percy Im here and Oh So happi!

ABIGAIL PERCY:
It was through finding Abigail’s blog that I was inspired to create my own blog.

Abigail Percy designs ultra feminine, botanical / floral jewellery that is based around the play of silhouette and positive and negative spaces. Her main source of inspiration is found in the silhouettes and motifs she designs that stem from activities such as photography and leaf pressing. Abigail’s use of embellished motif is very different to my approach but I find the way she incorporates natural imagery into her designs, fresh and inspiring.

"My work is inspired by a personal love and fascination for historical repeat pattern design, particularly floral. I love to spend time sourcing natural imagery to interpret into jewellery, and like nothing better than rumaging for beautiful vintage design at flea markets abroad."

I just have to say how amazing I think it must be to go to art school in Glasgow!
All my favourite designers are from Scotland, Glasgow must be a little design center Haven in itself.

Heaven made of Metal!!!! Again!

2008-08-27T02:47:00.000-07:00

Another of my favourite designers is DONNA KEAY:

Another artist who’s work I strongly admire is Donna Keay2 , her simple yet intricately patterned sterling silver jewellery is inspired by historical jewels, antique books and gold-tooled book-cover patterns. By way of using simple panels or segments of these etchings she aims to convert these themes into contemporary, wearable jewellery.

COMPARISON TO MY WORK

The difference of her work to mine lies in the simplified, geometrical manner that she uses to translate pattern into jewellery. The manipulation of pattern in the lace like effect of my work is created through the use of multiple pierced elements that were cast, whether Donna’s process of photo-etching allows textured layers of the remnants of historical pattern or text to be reproduced on metal. The outcome of a final piece is quite different although we both use repetition of historical pattern and motif as inspiration.

Having trouble uploading images of her work will try again later but for now pls use the link to her website to browse her entire collection

Heaven made of Metal!!!

2008-08-27T02:28:00.000-07:00

Have decided to blog more on other jewellery designers that inspire me and who's work I follow, as i think this is a good way to explain my style and what I am trying to create with my B-Tech body of work.First up is:

Marianne Anderson.

Inspired by the history of ornament, Marianne Anderson’s jewellery presents an exploration of traditional ornamental forms with an original interpretation of the decorative from a modern point of view.

Working within a restrained palette of oxidized silver, 18ct gold, red garnets and white pearls, she creates striking and wearable collections that skillfully reference the human fascination with adornment.

COMPARISON TO MY WORK

Unlike my pieces that, although are based Victorian patterns and styles and are more feminine and lace like, Marianne’s work is bold and statement making, the high impact of blackened metal with its ironwork references and the stylized use of historical patterns work together to “ Highlight the importance of ornament in a modern context “.

 “My interest is rooted in how we learn and draw from the past and return frequently to designs, motifs and patterns of historic and symbolic significance. By purposefully engaging with the past, my aim is to highlight the importance of ornament in a modern context. Far from superfluous, ornament has always had its own vocabulary and meaning and I try to engage with this through my work.”

I love the way she has fused contemporary ornamentation with a touch of history. Delicate, striking and gorgeous.

"New Baroque" and why it still rocks...

2008-08-22T05:20:00.000-07:00

Have been thinking about the concept of “New Baroque” and how it relates to my work,My understanding of this theme is a cross of old fashioned detail and embellishment such as flocked wallpaper, wood carvings, cast iron gates and fencing, lace and embroidery (there is a wonderful and vary inspiring blog called Paris Apartment that has some great examples) with a 21st century design or style.

Funky French Imperial Plastic furniture by Jasper Van Grootel as well as stunning fashion like the Vogue shoot Annie Leibovitz did with Kirsten Dunst reminds one of the past but still has a taste for the present are hugely inspiring to me and I love finding new examples of this kind of cross pollination.

I really enjoy the cteative photo shoots that fashion magazines put together and want to explore doing my own kind of shoot.
I really think a brochure or catalogue would make a difference in my sales, I want to work on printing my own and a shoot would be a good way to come up with some fabulous pics.
The fantastic and wonderfully talented fashion designer Kathrin Kidger has a range that I think, will complement my jewellery.Kathrin’s clothes are modern and comfortable with a vintage twist.Her designs fuse old school glamour and elegance with with a touch of eclecticism in a most exciting way and its going to be lovely styling both her clothes and my jewellery together in new and inspiring ways!
Ill keep you posted with updates on this idea, as we have to find a model, photographer and location in order to do things properly.

August 08 Showing...-

2008-08-12T05:27:00.000-07:00

My little blog has been neglected for a while now and I have fallen behind on a couple of posts, which I hope to make up for this week.

The showing I had been working so hard on, was last Friday it was a lovely day but less fruitful than my previous showings, I had quite a few sales but didn't make the target I made from the last one.

I have come to a few CONCLUSIONS :

- Previous showings were directed at stay at home moms and older ladies, Friday afternoons seemed to be a perfect time to gather them all for tea, cake and jewellery shopping. So when I set the date for working 20 to 35 year olds I thought Fridays would still be best, I was wrong. Most of the people that R.S.V.P ‘d, were working and were going to try to get off early - the turn out was poor, It’s important to pay attention to your target market and make sure the time and date are suitable.

- Its much better to have the event at someone else's house and not your own - less pressure to cater, entertain e.t.c. The last one I held was particularly more difficult ( at my house ) - initially, it seemed it would be easier, I could organize everything and do whatever I wanted but as it turned out there is just too much to do-better to keep having them away from home.

- It’s important, although costly, to have doubles of everything as if you sell an item at the very beginning, you either have to send it off and not have anymore sales from it or ask to deliver it within the next couple of days, which is even more work and may compromise the sale.

- Branding is key, people like to feel like they are buying a label, even if you are only starting out it’s important to make an effort and be organized. I need more boxes that fit all my pieces properly, I love the lime green and turquoise organza ribbon ones I have now, but they aren’t suitable for the larger items and branded gift bags are next on my list.

- As a young entrepreneur / artist you feel ill equipped to go out and sell your product! Being confident in what you have hand made your self, smiling and engaging with the customer, can make or brake a sale. Mingling is the key to feeling relaxed and confident, confidence is the key to selling.

All in all it was a good day I’m happy, I worked very hard but each time I learn something new and see thing from a different perspective, which i suppose is progress in itself!

Hope the start to your week is super Productive!
S.

2008-08-04T22:59:00.000-07:00

A week has gone by already and I hardly know where!Its been so busy, Ive been doing so many things at once...
My platinum piece is coming along nicely,Im using the competition as a springboard to work on another design style, so that, Im
hugely excited about that! As this is a competition I cant show u the
design, all I can do is give u a sneak peak later on and tell youIm
working on a pair of earrings that should be finished today just need
to make some more wire,which I confess I have been putting off....

My next showing is this Friday the 8th and I have so much to do, Im feeling rather overwhelmed...
I
would like this is to be my last showing for this collection, in an
ideal world - time wise - I would like to do this last one,in order not
to have to worry about money and then take some time off to write and
really get stuck into it as this pottering around doing a little bit at
a time actually just makes me more unorganized and unproductive than ever!
After that I could focus on playing with my new range....
That's all for now,
I bid u a productive day!and leave u with one of the new pieces for Friday...
S.

I love making new friends....

2008-07-29T06:35:00.000-07:00

Today has been a good day and Im so excited to share it with you all!
I just have to write about the lovely Jena over at Modish
- a wonderful blog Featuring handmade gift ideas and product reviews, interviews with various artists as well as sections on building your home made business (hugely helpful) and gardening, cookery and sustainable living - its a treasure trove of creative genius!

A Big Thank You to Jena for featuring me in her super inspiring section of "Handmade spaces", where she features the different working spaces of artists from various mediums.
Its wonderful and so inspiring to see the creative spaces of people all over the world, who spend their days just like me - trying to feed their vice and inspire their own creativity!

P.S. I leave you with a little picture of my bench today
Have a good evening!Wherever you are in the world!
-S

Blogging from my new home....

2008-07-25T02:29:00.000-07:00

Its such a thrill to be blogging from my very own apple mac!
Its taken a while to move in, there is so much I don't know as I have only ever used Microsoft programmes so I'm stumbling around in the dark, just need time to get used to it!

Have been quite busy with stock for my next showing as well as other orders and next week I start the platinum work shop,haven't quite perfected the final design- will be doing that on the weekend i think this plat competition will be a great reason to work on something new...... so Im looking forward to it!

for now I leave u with the only image i have managed to upload and size on my new computer,pls excuse the fact that its just boring stock....it was just a practice run

Bid u good weekend!
S.

Oodles of Doodles.......

2008-07-16T05:33:00.000-07:00

I have been doodling quite a lot lately trying to get back into using pen and paper as a design tool and although these cant be used in actual jewellery pieces its easier and more relaxing to doodle for now....I'm really enjoying this process it feels quite liberating as the line flows so easily and effortlessly, nothing like the hammering, forging and manipulating one has to do in order to conquer the Beauty of metal....
Happi Wed wherever u r in the World!

I just cant get enough ............

2008-07-15T07:48:00.000-07:00

Time!
Its been a busy start to the week and just got done with all my investing, so glad that's one thing less to do.Tomorrow is casting time but that's the better part as I will have more elements to play with! Cant wait!
Have been spending more time working on my research report and so many questions are popping up I almost don't know where to begin.Im greatful to have my journal more or less up to date so that I can go back and use it in my report especially last years work which seems so very far away and almost unnecessary to dig up... although I know it is.I'm much happier and confident with a more historical revival side to my work its much more tangible and I draw a lot more inspiration from this background as opposed to the more abstract,conceptual and poetical direction my work was going in last year.
I am almost convinced to move on to another element and have been playing around with some botanical motifs but cant quite come up with the perfect design!
Well that's it for now, am off to research some of the artists whose work I'm most interested in for my RR, like the wonderful and talented Marianne Anderson and the fantastic Scottish designer Donna Kaey whose work I absolutely adore and cant get enough of....
That's all for now...
haPPi TueSday wherever in the World u are!

P.S.
I took this photo in the "old city" in Dubrovnik, Croatia when I was there last year in August.Lovely isn't it?

The view this morning....

2008-07-12T01:24:00.000-07:00

I have been having problems over the past few days uploading photos so I am trying out new shots jsut of the view this morning...the week has flown by and I have so much to do,hopefully next week will be more productive in terms of manufacture as well as other things!I really need to sort this picture problem out so that I can catch up on my blog postings!!!!

For now I leave u with a cloudy day in La Lucia.
Saw Dolphins playing in the waves earlier this morning it was lovely, I enjoyed the scene over a cosy cup of tea!

By the way thats Baby girl otherwise known as Buttercup the jack russell
and Sophie the Ridgeback both saying Hello!Flippi the other ridgback is probably off hunting something or anything from butterfly's to snakes....

The Vodacom Durban July Races......

2008-07-10T06:56:00.000-07:00

Things have been sorted and have managed to save all my pics from destruction!!!
Hooray!
Have quite a busy week ahead but will still make extra effort to blog as much as I can in order to get ontop of everything.
I do have one last piece of interesting news before I tell u about the July though, I sent some pics of my bench and workspace over to Modish they have this wonderfully inspiring section called "handmade Spaces" I would love to be part of it ... so Im holding thumbs!!
This past weekend was the July and I just have to post some pics of everyone as we had such a great day I even won R400 on Dancers Daughter! who came in 1st place but tied wuth another horse! What a great day ..... so much fun !Megan Coleman Miss SouthAfrica 2007 wore one of my larger pieces for the day but dont have a picture yet!
So here are a couple of my friends and I enjoying the day .... note my gorgeous jewels.... as well as Kaitlins!

The Evening my jewellery and I went to visit "Bare".....

2008-07-08T05:39:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday evening we had a jewellery exhibition at a Local Art Boutique....it was a fantastic evening of friends getting together and displaying their individual work collectively.The wine flowed and hopefully the creative thinking did too!
Thanks to all my friends and colleagues for their continual support and inspiring conversations!

Branding....... Oh! The excitement!!!

2008-06-18T05:59:00.000-07:00

We were asked to design our own page promoting our work on photo shop,almost as if it were an ad in a magazine.Here is a pic of mine, I had done one last year as well but I def like this newer one more.I wanted to show as many pics of the work I have done lately as I could but with out the page being to over crowded and then of course there had to be text.....still have not decided whether I like what is written in the "ad" or "I would like to emphasize the allure of the delicate and ornate patterns found in the memories of history, thus reminding the wearer of the comfort derived from the past."
Taken from:

My jewellery symbolizes the old and the new, morphed together to form the present. Through exploring pattern and motif I hope to address the issues of detail and embellishment relating to the Victorian era that I find so appealing from a design point of view. Therefore , by constructing and deconstructing a number of these elements I would like to emphasize the allure of the delicate and ornate patterns found in the memories of history, thus reminding the wearer of the comfort derived from the past.

A room with a view.....

2008-06-09T03:44:00.000-07:00

Here is a shot of the amazing view we go to wake up to every day for a week..... A wonderful time of sitting by the fire reading,drinking lots of lovely red,going on long walks and just soaking it all up!

Back from the Mountains.......

2008-06-07T06:36:00.000-07:00

After a week in the Drakensburgh mountains and feeling completely better from being sick, I am happy to say that Im back and ready to go!have had a bad run of things what with not feeling well for so long and work piling up....... but now its time to get stuck into it and tie up lots of loose ends with my work.I have a few more orders that have been waiting to be done and then a couple of new designs that Im just dying to get started on!
My last post was still along the flavour of my last showing so, as I dont have pics of the wonderful view of the burg yet I will leave some shots of finished pieces that were sold.
Will blog again soon...

Whilst on a cruise to Mozambique

2008-05-25T03:19:00.000-07:00

Whilst making all this lovely jewellery I went away for the weekend on
the Melody a small cruise ship that goes up to Mozambique, it was an
awesome four days and just hat I needed to keep me inspired and
motivated!
A little African sunshine, the open sea and a lot of gin and tonics later I got quite creative on the beach.....

Beautiful shadows and silhouette's, I'm quite impressed with myself!

Working day in day out....

2008-05-25T03:08:00.000-07:00

After a few late evenings and very early mornings I finally completed the collection for my 2Nd showing, ending up with around 40 pieces ranging from R 350.00 to R3000.00.It was a lot of hard work but I am happy with my effort and realized that I actually can be quite productive when I set my mind to it!
I love the images I occasionally take of my bench when I'm surrounded by creative thoughts and in working working mode.... the energy is intoxicating and when ever I look back at shots like these I'm reminded of what a happy place my bench is.

Most favourite "Happy accident"

2008-05-25T02:57:00.000-07:00

This is fast becoming one of my favourite pieces,
I love the cross and how detailed it looks just with the simple
overlapping of the same heart shaped elements, tiny seed pearls finish off each end and give it a more regal look.
The
idea of using different sized fresh water pearls happened quite by
mistake and its an idea I used in more than one piece.The pearls are
just as beautiful but seem less stuffy and haughty with size variation
and also not going all the way around the neck - the half chain adds to
a happier mix of modern day Vs old fashioned.

Some design Ideias

2008-05-25T02:16:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pics of design ideas that I played around with whilst
making the collection....I find this is the easiest and quickest way to
design lately it really pays off and I feel more productive, although I
realize that I am not drawing at all now and I need to address this
soon and not leave it too long.It already feels strange to sit down and
draw the pencil feels awkward in my hand....

Neo Victorian VS Victoriana...

2008-05-25T01:49:00.000-07:00

Have been thinking about the term Victoriana and how it relates to my work, according to wikipedia :

"Victoriana" tends to reflect the tastes of the period. Examples in literature might be Charles Dickens' Oliver Twist or Sheridan Le Fanu's Carmilla, stories which strongly reflect the moral atmosphere of the time. In the case of objects, a military tailcoat, carriage clock or scrollwork on an iron gate might be considered Victoriana if they were made at the time, in the style characteristic of the Victorian age.

Objects that look Victorian but are not of the time—for example, a gothic-style waistcoat made in the 1990s—would not qualify as Victoriana, having been made outside the relevant period, but instead Neo-Victorian.

"Neo Victorian" is :
An æsthetic movement which amalgamates Victorian and Edwardian æsthetic sensibilities with modern principles and technologies. A large number of magazines and websites are devoted to Neo-Victorian ideas in dress, family life, interior decoration, morals, and other topics.
Examples of crafts made in this style would include push-button cordless telephones made to look like antique wall-mounted phones, CD players resembling old time radios, Victorianesque furniture, and Victorian era-style clothing with Goth, Punk and Rivet accents.

The Neo Victorian concept is a big part of my work, I love all manner of things that look to the past for inspiration and I hope I to achieve this with the jewellery I design.

Oh! How time flies.........

2008-05-11T01:30:00.000-07:00

Its been more than a month since my last post and I feel quite awful
for the neglect.I had been working hard for my showing(which was 2
weeks ago already)and took lots of pics of my bench and the different
designs I was working on but my comp access was limited and I just
never had the time to load them.
So now I will be showing you what happened instead of a preview......
To brighten up this first post here is a shot of some gorgeous Roses Can u believe they came from the garden?I adore them!

Filligree wannabies....

2008-04-17T09:10:00.000-07:00

I had finished these earrings earlier this week and forgot about them, they are quite pretty and remind me of my, dare I say it? Portuguese roots which is, ok, I'm enjoying them quite a lot and might just delve into some more Portuguese looking pieces like the filigree work and maybe even the gold plating.
It really feels like there is not enough time for everything, or maybe I'm just a really slow worker and cant keep up with what I think of..... which quite easily makes me loose the thought in the first place and then I land up not doing much........

An afternoon of "setting" around....

2008-04-17T08:46:00.000-07:00

I just have to include this post today as I'm really chuffed I managed to finish setting both these pendants!My setting is OK to say the least so I am quite proud of them!I would like to set all my work but cannot promise that I will as sometimes I get it wrong!Mental note to self : Make sure the settings width is a perfect size i.e. 0.5mm all around , no more just winging it!!
Success!I can taste it!!!!!!!!!!!

I love this piece its exactly what I wanted to make!

A little preview of what Im working on.....

2008-04-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

I took this quick shot this morning to show the various pieces I have been working on for my showing next month.I seem to work on at least four different pieces at a time and jump from them quite a lot this way I don't get bored and work much faster.I have also noticed that my designing has changed as before I would sit and draw until I found something I like that would ultimately end up at least a little altered during the manufacture process but now I like to fiddle around with lots of different elements and stones etc and see what appeals to me,what strikes me and catches my eye.This process is quite rewarding as you can work for a couple of days just tinkering about ,then all of a sudden you have five pieces made up that just need to be set and polished!!!Oooooooh the sheer joy!

Lotus flower earrings..

2008-04-14T01:07:00.000-07:00

These earrings although very simple have had quite a lot of success I always get compliments when I'm wearing them and as a result have sold quite a few pairs.I could solder a few tiny balls in the centre of each flower but I don't think it would make much of a difference and therefore don't see any ways to improve them,besides from shortening the ear wires so that they sit directly bellow the earlobe which made a difference in their appeal to the public.

Forged flat "snowflake" Neckpiece.

2008-04-14T00:55:00.001-07:00

Here are some great shots of this bold neck piece,it sits asymmetrically on the body and is molded and hammered according to the size of each individuals neck.I'm not bothered by its flat appearance as I think it works quite well in suggesting detail through silhouette as opposed to actually being an intricately decorated piece.I also love the Lace like effect made by the overlapped and forged elements.

"basket "earrings with brio crystals

2008-04-14T00:44:00.000-07:00

Before I get onto the things I have been working on recently I need to still post some pics of a few more pieces.....
These earrings are a favourite of mine as they are so eye catching when worn. I'm really happy with them and wouldn't change much.I had initially made a pair that had ear wires that didn't work too well,the wire was soldered straight onto the basket instead of being attached to a jump ring for more movement.So they had to be re done and now they are great.I would like to make another pair for next months showing but without the Briollette and gold plate them!Stunning!!!!

Feels good to be back.....

2008-04-11T11:13:00.000-07:00

well its been far too long that Ive been away and quite shocking too.... there is so much to add now and update I dont know where to begin,I unfortunately cant post any pics today so this is just a note to get back in the swing of things!

up coming preview:

Pics of my trip to switzerland and experiences in the amazing freezing snow!
New additions and designs for my next showing!
Scans of various journal pages!
thoughts and test pieces (eventually actual items of jewellery) on FILIGREE jewellery and techniques!

Really need to finish.........

2008-02-13T05:13:00.000-08:00

These are photos of a ring I started working on last year and really need to finish.I am using two sections cut from an open snowflake element,having soldered them together they make a perfect seat for an oval stone.Ive added a leaf like detail (also cut from the snowflake element) as an extra embelishment as well as to fill in the empty space between the shank and the really high setting.The finished design will have tiny fused balls soldered all over it,I think this ring really manages to combine the "old fashioned" Victorian style that I admire so much with a more contemporary look,one of my main aimes in this collection.Fusing history with contemporary design.I dont know if this ring will turn out successful,as setting the stone with special looking "claws" seems quite dawnting!!!!Hope I can do it!If I can it will be spectacular!

More trinkets II !

2008-02-07T04:57:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of a piece that I started some time ago and have not completed even though I want to badly..... There is nothing about the design I want to change,it will consist of four sections of hand pierced silver plate that is slightly domed to fit the shape of the wrist and attatched by long siver hinges,I love it and think it will also be part of my "winter" b-tech collection but I cant for the life of me finish it and I dont know why.Perhaps its just one of those pieces that sits around waiting and waiting until all of a sudden inspirtion hits u and u pick up ur saw frame and carry on with it.Or perhaps its too similar to a piece I made in 3rd year that was also hinged and thats why I cant finish it.... Whatever it is,here it is waiting,waiting.....

Snowflake sphere necklace

2008-02-07T04:39:00.000-08:00

Snowflake sphere neck piece - an amazing seller! Here is a picture of the how the pierced spheres look as a necklace.I had initially, hung them from a normal snake chain and tried a couple of variations but the lariat effect emphasized the actual ball the most.This is the kind of piece I can always count on selling, it really looks good on all age groups, even though at first glance it seems like quite a modern sort of trendy piece that only the younger demographic would wear.
They come in a flattish sort of sphere or a perfectly round ball. As well as, in two different sizes (this is the larger size) Strange how the simplest designs can sometimes be the most successful.....

More Trinkets!

2008-02-07T04:03:00.000-08:00

As the new working year is well under way and I would like to have all of last years work up on my blog before I get stuck into my new collection I am going to try and get the bulk of things done today.There are too many ideas and thoughts bubbling up inside me and I need to make space for them.... My "Spring" collection will obviously be floral with a variation of pattern, size and repetition, maybe some 22ct thrown in to keep in the sunlight style! but I'm not exactly sure what i want so Ill explain my thoughts properly later on.
For now here are some more of last years pieces.....

Snowflake and crystal briollette earrings in polished silver as well as blackened silver I made them in two sizes but the smaller size seems to look and sell! better.

Synth Smoky Quartz pendante

2008-02-07T03:38:00.000-08:00

This piece I am keeping for my b-tech work although its currently decorating the neck of my mother. I only need it at the end of the year anyway so it doesn't matter. Its a variation of the "Victorian Brooch" piece. Ive had this lovely large synthetic smoky quartz for some years now and never knew what to do with it, while I was making the first piece this one popped up in my mind and I had to do it!
I tried it out with the cultured pearls but it seemed too over the top as the stone is 25x18mm, quite large. So I kept it simple and made a matching bail cut from a section of the same patterned metal and left out all the detail like the tiny fused balls and extra stones.
I am currently making one for a customer but with synthetic Peri dot, pale green definitely gives it a new twist and is reminding me that if I am to leave frosty Winter behind and let Spring in with all its colour and light and hope!I better start letting some bright colours creep onto my bench and see what i can make of them!

Victorian brooch pendante..

2008-02-07T03:16:00.000-08:00

Here is a piece that I really enjoyed making, I got a huge sense of achievement when i completed it, like my work was really going somewhere and that i was finally making jewellery that spoke to me... I love the Victorian feel it has and the way I fused tiny balls on the end of the wires in order to keep the pearls in place. It feels like it should have or could have been a charming brooch on some great lady's high lace collar. What a stunning feeling! I'm sorry I didn't get more photos of it (especially on the body) before I sold it, shall have to make another one.

I pierced out the Fleur de lis sections of one of my snowflake patterns and domed them to create this design, soldering them to the tube setting for the 10mm white cubic zirconia.There are white fresh water pearls that have been secured in all four corners of the piece and a white crystal briolette hanging from the bottom of it. Unlike most of my other pieces, no bail was made, as I felt it added another section to the piece which was too much. It also reminds me more of a brooch this way.

The last image was taken when I was still playing with the design, I thought I would include it here anyway. I think they would make rather stunning but rather heavy earrings!

My place.......

2008-01-31T05:53:00.000-08:00

Here is a photo of my bench, taken last year while I was manufacturing the white lace choker.I love my bench its my special place where I can play and relax and potter around bluffing Im working even when Im really not!!

"Metal Lace"

2008-01-30T06:40:00.000-08:00

These are the matching, more commercial looking bangles they are very stylish and unique looking and seem to be getting a lot of positive attention.

This piece was inspired by the stunning and intricate diamond chokers that were worn in the Victorian Era.It turned out to be quite effective and eye catching and definitely keeps your neck straight and up right!!
The dress in the first decade of the 20th century ( Belle Epoque ) relied heavily on the use of lavish materials; cascades of lace applied to every part of the gown, complemented by plumes and ostrich feathers.The focal point was the neck and decollete, which, during the dayw as concealed by an array of lace, tulle and straight collars tightly fitted by means of boning. At night, however, extravagantly low cut decolletes were revealed and suitably adorned by a multitude of diamond necklaces and chokers that resembled lace work.

The next piece that I dedicated some time on although it took me quite a while to complete (as i stopped and started) was the "lace" effect choker and matching bangles.

Snowflakes in my Hand....

2008-01-30T06:31:00.000-08:00

These pierced and domed spheres were the first pieces I made at the very beginning of my B-Tech, I was very excited about them as they were so simple but so striking at the same time.I remember the rush of energy I had once I had completed and polished them, they seemed so perfect that for a long time i didn't want to make jewellery out if them, I just wanted to play with them and hold them in my hands.

The design came from some arabesque like patterned pierced out squares that I just loved and wanted to do more with.
Once I had stylized the pattern and pierced them put, the most logical step was to dome them and solder them together!
These spheres later became lariat type necklace that are one of my best sellers.

Last years work II

2008-01-29T05:51:00.000-08:00

Inicial ideias .....

2008-01-29T05:11:00.000-08:00

These are some of last years photos taken of my studio wall.Gorgeous work of other artists as well as my own pieces and beautiful,inspiring,ornate images of anything that catches my eye!

My work to date......

2008-01-29T05:03:00.000-08:00

My work for the past year has been based around re-creating the delicate and ornate look of lace and transforming it into metal.I use winter as a metaphor to portray a “frosty” look with stylized snowflake patterns that represent both the beauty and the harshness of winter.
In this range I use" Metal Lace" elements (blackened or highly polished), freshwater pearls and cubic zirconia to create handmade solid sterling silver pieces designed in
an antique yet dramatic Victorian style.

Snowblossom Ring

2008-01-29T03:57:00.000-08:00

There was no avoiding making this Blossom ring, at the time I was still trying to avoid anything botanical and go in a direction that was more about pattern and repetition.But this ring happened so easily and looked so eye catching, I finished it played around with colour finishes like blackening and an acid white effect ( I liked the starkness the black and white gave to my work ) and put it away, not giving it much thought.
In hindsight this ring has a special place in my body of work, I love the fact that its so large and that it really looks like a lace flower.
Its strange how you can do things your not consciously aware of and then they turn out to be important milestones.
This ring is important to me as, although it doesn't have any obvious historical references, it's beauty and effectiveness lies in the fact that hard metal can look like delicate lace.
It also seems to be quite a hit in my Etsy shop so it clearly catches the eye.Something I would like all my pieces to do, to emulate uniqueness