Sarah Kinnersley

How would you describe the work you do and why?

Nature is both my muse and my sanctuary. I spend a lot of time outdoors, walking, observing, collecting. It’s where many of my ideas begin. I often work directly with natural materials I’ve found near my countryside studio in the heart of England, or along the Scottish Highland coastline and southern beaches where I grew up. My process is led by texture. I forge sheet silver over rocks and pebbles, which bring often surprisingly soft flowing forms. I press molten metal into charred logs from the campfire to create one-off nuggets, full of character. Delicate finds like leaf skeletons, seaweed or feathers picked up on my walks are dried, pressed and rolled or forged into sheet silver or gold, leaving behind their one-of-a-kind imprint, like a natural fingerprint, permanently embedded in the precious metal. I love bringing these raw, organic impressions together with more familiar jewellery forms; rings, brooches, earrings, pendants and often pairing them with traditional stone settings. The result is something that feels both unique and timeless: elegant, wearable pieces that connect you to nature. I also make one of a kind commission pieces, often remodelling my clients sentimental old gold and gemstones. It is always a pleasure to weave their personal stories and meaning into these precious pieces. Skylark Jewellery is grounded in strong eco-credentials. I use only recycled metals and responsibly sourced stones. My aim is to create jewellery that celebrates the wild energy of the natural world, that feels good to wear, and doesn’t cost the earth.

For you what does being an artist mean?:

For me, being an artist is about intuitive making, expressing something that feels true even when it's still forming. I like to allow the materials to guide decisions. I don't over plan, I respond, rather like having a conversation with the piece I am creating. Connection, meaning and quiet strength are all important to me. Whether this is through a collection, a personal commission or one of my Jewellery workshops. Creating pieces and experiences that speak to people, hold /create memories and make them feel good.

Describe what you call yourself/your practice?:

I’m an Art Jeweller working at a professional level, creating contemporary jewellery with a strong sense of identity and craftsmanship. I work mainly in recycled silver and gold, often incorporating ethically sourced gemstones, using a blend of traditional and experimental silversmithing techniques to craft something original and meaningful. Alongside my jewellery, I create limited edition prints from my sketchbooks; quiet studies of the same landscapes that inspire my work. Together, they offer a natural pairing, each adding something special to the other.

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

I make several self directed art residencies each year. Out in nature and based loosely on a theme. I sketch, take photo's and absorb a place. From this a Jewellery collection is born. I also run two people Jewellery experiences in my countryside studio, just one per month. A chance to spend precious time with someone special, making memories and something meaningful. These are always a joy!

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

Fine Art Sculpture Degree (BA Hons) Silver Smithing, Falmouth Advanced jewellery, France Stone setting, Glasgow

Exhibitions in the last 3 years:

Malvern RHS shows, Malvern The Artists gallery guest, Ludlow HArt open studios The Hay Makers guest, Hay on Wye Nature in Art, Artist is residence, Gloucester Makers, West Sussex Wildlife Trust shows

Your gallery outlets/stockists:

Skylark Jewellery online store Found Gallery, Dunbar, Scotland Foundling Gallery, Cromarty, Scotland Studio Four, Worcestershire, England Various guest artist shows throughout the year

Artwork for Sarah Kinnersley

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