Last year Design Factory members were approached to do a collaborative exhibition with another maker to be showcased at the National centre for craft and design www.nationalcraftanddesign.org.uk. I jumped at the chance as I have admired Milly Moore's stunning jewellery for some time now www.millymoore.co.uk. Some makers have worked together using a mixture of their own unique skills to create a combined piece and others have swapped materials or sources of inspiration resulting in various interpretations of collaboration.
Images; Milly Moore jewellery in collaboration with myself as part of Design Factory’s ‘Synchronise’ exhibition and inspired by the notions of afternoon tea! materials; hand -painted porcelain with lace impressed into the clay, gems, beads and pearls.
The idea stage was a very organic process as we understood each other’s idea right from the start. We had quite a few ideas sketched so we narrowed it down by choosing our favourite. Then we discussed layout options using samples and colour schemes to suit the theme. It was interesting to see that we both approached it in a similar way and bounced ideas from each other to create exciting and vibrant jewellery. The pieces we have created compliment both of our styles and it was a great opportunity to combine skills to create one off, unique, show pieces that are delicate yet striking.
I think it is good to step out of your comfort zone as a maker and take on a new brief while learning new skills from each other. We both absolutely loved the process and the end result so watch this space!
For more information or commissions please contact us. We would love to hear from you! The exhibition is a fantastic show and runs from the 9th March until the 2nd June and is a must see! www.nationalcraftanddesign.org.uk
