KINETIC
Last week I delivered jewellery that I had made to MAKE Southwest ready for their upcoming exhibition which opens next weekend. My submission was for two complementing necklaces which explore the theme of the both sunlight and moonlight on the sea at two favourite locations in Cornwall where I grew up.
Memorable moments
Remembering well those first exciting glimpses and widening views from the cliff top above Vault Beach, I was mesmerised by the sparkle of the sun on the sea. To me, it was like watching precious gems glittering and flashing; darting and dancing along the water’s surface and it was a magical moment that stopped me in my tracks every time.
I Can See The Sea
Hoping to evoke that childhood wonder and to prompt similarly impactful memories or experiences in others, this pendant is both tactile and interactive. The wearer is able to manipulate the workings from behind, which in turn creates movement to the twisted waves and ripples contained within the shallow box frame, shaped to suggest the rolling surface of the sea.
Minack Moon
The necklaces are not pieces of automata – they are pieces of wearable kinetic art more akin to jewellery often referred to as ‘fidget’ jewellery. Worn to help overcome feelings of anxiety or overwhelm, fidget jewellery gives the wearer something to both connect and engage with to distract from negative feelings and promote a sense of security.
I really hope that my pieces would evoke happy, safe memories and comfort.
Having made two versions of the necklace, I have explored how memories of sunlight and moonlight on Cornish seas have always been equally beautiful and mesmerising to me. For me, the pair acknowledge how the connection and beauty of a visual memory changes and evolves as it is seen through our eyes as we grow up.
I Can See The Sea
This is the child inspired version and it features tiny heritage diamonds flush set in to the surface of the moving twists providing that sparkle that caught my attention as a little girl.
Minack Moon
A mirror image, the moving parts have been oxidised to contrast with the sunlight version. Highlights across the dark patination suggest moonlight on the water which was the natural, and always magical, backdrop to evening performances at Cornwall’s iconic cliff top theatre.
Hanging from smooth and fluid chains which runs through a tube within the body of each pendant, it is long enough to allow the wearer to manipulate the workings, see the movement and be reminded of the calm and tranquil memories.
View the necklace in action
I am so pleased with the finished pieces.The project was not without its challenges and although looks simple in concept and design, is the most technical piece that I have made.
Most importantly, I have loved the chance to revisit simple memories, recognise how small things can leave lasting impact and to re connect with my inner child who I hope will continue to remind me of the beauty and wonder that is around us all.
Below is a link to a short film made by Oli Evans, a young film student, that beautifully captures a little of the story behind the pieces and one of the necklaces in action.
I Can See The Sea
I hope that you may have an opportunity to visit the exhibition at MAKE Southwest. It opens on Saturday 24th January until 18th April and is open between 10am and 5pm on Tuesdays to Saturdays.
MAKE Southwest, Riverside Mill, Bovey Tracey, TQ13 9AF
More information can be found below
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