Kim Allwright (Wilde Works)
Artwork for Kim Allwright (Wilde Works)
Details
How would you describe the work you do and why?
My work draws mostly on social and global issues, the drivers behind what I do. I create intuitively, channelling my responses into the visual language of jewellery, often contrasting the turbulence and chaos of modern times with calm and playfulness, as is human nature. I use colour to help convey or strengthen a message, and the language of jewellery to share values and invite connection. The pinnacle moment for me, is when a piece leaves my hands to start a journey of its own with those who identify with and carry its meaning forward. I work mainly in recycled silver and resin, making one-of-a-kind and small-batch pieces of minimalist contemporary jewellery. Every step in the process is taken with the planet in mind, making my small business as sustainable as possible. I am mostly self-taught.
For you what does being an artist mean?:
I transitioned to making jewellery from a long career in translation after an operation impacted my ability to continue translating. Despite both careers being so very different, they both require an eye for detail and a meticulous approach. However, working as a studio jeweller, I am now better able to manage my physical wellbeing. It has also given me more creative freedom to express my thoughts and feelings through the pieces I make and allowed me to connect with others through my work, adding to my mental wellbeing.
Describe what you call yourself/your practice?:
Studio jeweller trading under the name Wilde Works.
Your practice & activities include e.g workshops, teaching:
My main practice is making and selling my work through galleries, local markets and exhibitions, as well as online through my website. I am also a member of the Herefordshire Guild of Designer Makers and the Crafts Council Directory.
CV & Education, relevant & leading to your artistic practice:
2020 Part-time bench jeweller at John McKellar Designer Jewellery in Hereford (until the business changed hands in 2024) 2015 CAD Rhino Jewellery/Matrix for Designer Makers, Birmingham School of Jewellery (one year part-time) 2011 Stone Setting, Birmingham School of Jewellery (one year part-time)
Exhibitions in the last 3 years:
2026 Participating as a former member in Alloy: Sense of Place, The Courtyard, Hereford (January-March) 2025 Various shows with the Herefordshire Guild of Designer Makers, Blue Magpie and h.Art 2024 Included in New Earrings: 500+ Contemporary Jewellery Designs by Nicolas Estrada, published in 2024 by Hoaki Books, Barcelona, Spain
Your gallery outlets/stockists:
Bricks & Mortar: Flux, 42 Cotham Hill, Bristol, BS6 6LA Online: www.wildeworks.co.uk