Shelly Perkins
Shelly Perkins
Catherine Van Giap - fish panel
Catherine Van Giap
William Smith
William Smith
Harbour by Lorenzo Gavarini
Lorenzo Gavarini
Jill Crowther
Jill Crowther

Harriet Wilson

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Artwork for Harriet Wilson

enamel earrings

enamel bowl

Japanese inspired enamel earrings

enamel pendants

enamel mismatched earrings

enamel dish with spoon

How would you describe the work you do and why?: 

I usually enamel on copper and create all kinds of items, usually jewellery, but enamel lends it's self to other forms and I particularly enjoy firing bowls because the enamel melts and runs creating wonderful patterns. My style is contemporary, fun, sometimes quirky, but always with an eye to colour and form.
I use a kiln heated to anywhere between 790°C to over 900°C. At these temperatures, copper becomes cherry red and enamel does unexpected things. A seemingly magical process produces an alchemy of glass, oxides and pigments which transforms the powdered glass into beautiful coloured pieces.

For you what does being an artist mean?: 

Being an enamel artist is a little bit selfish. I love the whole process from design to finished pieces with the added twist that I can never entirely predict what will come out of the kiln, so each piece is a surprise. It is my happy space and if it makes someone else happy then that is good. It's even better if they buy my work!

Describe what you call yourself/your practice?: 

My practice is called 'Firefly'. I am an enamel artist who is inspired by the intricate work of enamellists across the world and the shiny, colourful and permanent process of melted glass on metal. It’s a technique that goes back to the 13th Century, but my work has more of a contemporary twist.

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

I am a member of the Guild of Enamellers, The Worcester Guild of Contemporary Craft and the Colwall Collective

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

I would have loved to have gone to Art School but missed that chance. After a career in an unrelated field I decided to change direction and go back to the creative world. I retrained in enamelling by taking short courses and practicing in my own time. I hope I can encourage others to forget about the qualifications and get on with what inspires you.

Exhibitions in the last 3 years: 

3 Counties Spring and Autumn shows since 2021, Craftworks at Elmslie House 2022 and 23, Take 4 Gallery 2021 and 22.

Your gallery outlets/stockists: 

Oxenham Art, Leominster; Oxenham Gallery, Hereford; Mango Juice Gallery, Worcester; The Boat House Gallery, Tintern; The Boat House Gallery, Monmouth; Bluestone Gallery, Hay on Wye

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