Ann Bruford

With a professional career as a Contemporary Studio Jeweller spanning almost twenty years, my practice involves exploring the textures created by erosion and corrosion, resulting in sculpted forms with textures and patinas layered one upon the other, evolving with time and wear. I work primarily in silver, gold and copper, with coloured and highly textured ceramic 'stones' a recent addition following research undertaking during my MA at Arts University Plymouth.

Inspiration has been found in the messy edges of life – decaying wood, battered flotsam and jetsam, rusting machinery, pebbles gleaned from local beaches, a faded museum collection of Echinoderms (starfish and sea urchins) - feeding a lifelong fascination with textures both large and small. The effect of water is explored with designs often finished with a soft water-worn surface texture. I want to create work that you cannot resist picking up, turning over in your hand to explore the shape and details, much like the pebbles that are gathered on the shore and then return home in your pockets, too precious to leave behind.

My jewellery is created to provide the wearer with a tactile focus, perhaps to a occupy restless mind or as a comforting talisman. Textures layer one on the other, shade and reflected light harnessed to accentuate small details. Making these pieces takes time and constant evaluation of each tool and the mark it will leave, using laborious hand fabrication and finishing techniques to create a surface that will continue to mellow as it is worn.