Creative Research Residency at JCU Special Collections & Umbrella Studio

In November 2023 I had a brilliant opportunity to research at James Cook University’s Special Collections at the Mabo Library. I was researching the Sir Charles Maurice Yonge collection titled ‘British Marine Algae’ of 35 stunning pressed seaweed collected in 1884 by Annie Slade in Torquay, UK. I had this treasure all to myself for one week to explore through drawing their vibrant colour and form in detail.

Following on from that, I was given access to the jewellery making section downstairs Umbrella Studio for 3 weeks, where I created inspired versions of the minute details in various media like copper, silver and Shibuichi by using the chasing and repousse, a very old method of hammering relief into metal.  I have not yet finished these little pieces and will continue to create more small objects or jewellery and exhibit these in 2024.

I owe a huge thanks to all those involved and made this opportunity possible: Some of those people are Bronwyn Mc Burnie, Helen Hooper, Louise Cottrell, Liz Downs, Kate O’Hara, Erin Ricardo and Amanda Galea.

Me drawing from British Marine Algae

Me researching by drawing from JCU Special Collection, ‘ British Marine Algae’.

One of my copper creations from British Marine Algae at JCU Special Collections

Me doing chasing and repousse in red pitch at Umbrella Studio.

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‘aliware’ - exhibition of contemporary jewellery

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World of Wearable Art Trip-NZ