Eloise Kerr

I have always had a passion for fine art but, as my work is quite detailed and analytical, I decided to take the design route when applying to art school. My love of drawing and painting meant that the preliminary artwork for my designs became just as important to me as the designs and when I finished my Silversmithing and Jewellery degree I felt torn between focusing on my artwork or continuing as a contemporary jeweller.

I worked and travelled for a few years but experimented creatively in my spare time. I surprised myself when the work I created during this time, with no expectations or pressures, became quite expressive. I also started to wonder what these expressive patterns would look like in metal and I began to develop jewellery designs from my artwork. I use paint and inks to create organic patterns and from these I develop my unusual designs. Many of my jewellery pieces are delicate, abstract forms but, as I play more with symmetry, many of them unintentionally depict insect and skull-like forms. I find this connection fascinating as I have an interest in the display of symmetry in nature.

My intricate designs are pierced by hand from silver sheet and many are oxidised and finished with colourful gemstones. I have just launched my website which showcases my artwork and my new collection of jewellery. I am working on more paintings and jewellery designs and I plan to experiment with delicate wax sculptures and precious metal casting.