Janis Waldron

How would you describe the work you do and why?

I am a designer and maker of jewellery, small silver items and miniature creatures. I am passionate about crafting, the power of the handmade and have a love of detail coupled with a butterfly mind. This is amply demonstrated in the items I produce: finely etched designs on copper, unusual silver chain work and hand-knotted semi-precious bead and pearl necklaces with handmade clasps. Alongside these I make miniature teddy bears, rabbits, mice and other creatures in mohair or plush, all with hand crafted accessories.

For you what does being an artist mean?:

Being able to satisfy my drive to create and need to be busy; to be able to look at an object, texture or creature and translate it into something other. Not least, I enjoy the I enjoy the camaraderie and inspiration of being with like-minded people.

Describe what you call yourself/your practice?:

Janis Presbury Designs

Your practice & activities include e.g workshops, teaching:

I am keen to pass on my knowledge to others and to that end enjoy running workshops in bead and pearl threading, knotting and making miniature teddy bears. I have successfully run courses and workshops for individuals, as well as various adult groups including the WI and the Jewellery and Allied Industries Training Council.

CV & Education, relevant & leading to your artistic practice:

I began making jewellery many years ago as a 'stress buster' from a career in the Civil Service. To further my knowledge, I took evening classes at at Nottingham School of Art and Malvern Hills College . Eventually, I was fortunate to be given early severance from the Civil Service and embarked on a part-time course at Hereford College of Arts where I gained City and Guilds and Open College Network qualifications in silversmithing. I also attended the Birmingham School of Jewellery where I gained a passion for pearls and trained to advanced level in pearl threading and knotting. Alongside my studies, I worked at a local school as a technician in resistant materials: acrylics, clay, wood and metal. During this time I ran occasional courses in enamelling on copper for students.
I am a keen, self-taught needlewoman (sewing, knitting and crochet) and have used these skills to make and accessorise my miniature bears.

Exhibitions in the last 3 years:

h.Art
Various shows with the Herefordshire Guild of Craftsmen
Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum, Autumn and Christmas shows
Independent Bear Artists on-line show

Your gallery outlets/stockists:

Herefordshire Guild of Craftsmen
Aetheria Gallery, Malvern
Etsy Shop
Independent Bear Artists on-line show
I also enjoy working to commission - particularly making bears and other small creatures

Artwork for Janis Waldron

Details