Material Properties.

In this project I have been testing with materials that can be manipulated to give 3D forms that also have sensual textures, this is important to relate my work to the body. This makes it easier for me to treat the form as a subject rather than an object.

These are just initial experiments with new materials that have been inspired by Richard Serra's famous verb list.

I have also been very inspired after visiting Munich for the annual Schmuck exhibition, I discovered the work of Michelle Kraemer, in a joint exhibition '8together' with seven other contemporary jewellers.

These brooches titled 'Second skin' are made from stockings, latex and gold platted brass.

The flesh coloured latex and textures forms and indeed the title all evoke feelings of the body and the creases make these objects feel like they are hurt or damaged.

Materials like silicone, leather and suede, have the ability to look skin like but also behave like skin does. When stitching or inserting objects these materials the texture it leaves on or under the surface can mimic forms of the body, as well as body modification.

Aesthetics of appearance

This is my last project to be undertaken at uni, major project time.

I have chosen to look cultural beauty in its many variations. Sourcing my inspiration from traditions and its contemporary equivalents. 

Here are some images that have particularly been influencing my recent designs.

In these images some of the individuals would have experienced some pain for their looks. I am fascinated by these weird and wonderful body modifications. 

Stretching and piercings that were once only a part of tribal identity, now filtering down into the fashions of western culture. 

Cambridge, UK 2012

These images have inspired me to make pieces that are individual themselves and express

contemporary eclectic styles that have evolved from cultural traditions.

Minor project results

I finished all five of my brooches! very happy, although unfortunately someone did break one of them, but these things happen and just like our skin and bones, things break!

Here are some close up images of the final pieces:

The backplates were all individual for each piece but have a similar style.

I had a quick photo-shoot with photographer Harry Davies (http://hlop.tumblr.com/)

and had Joanna Theiakou modeling for me (http://joannatheiakou.weebly.com/)

My favourite ceramic pieces and glaze results.

I've made nearly 100 different pieces throughout this project, testing glazes and form. These are some of my favourites that wont be part of the final pieces:

Just experimenting with my brooch backs at the moment, only 2 weeks to the deadline so its non-stop work from here.

Skin Deep further update

10 weeks into our project and I have produced pieces that could be used for my final pieces.

 Now the task is to set them and to make the brooch backs. I will definitely be needing some luck for that!

Im ideally going to have 5 finished pieces at the end. 

Been trying work out what set work best together.

The next few weeks are going to be intense.