Artwork for Harriet Wilson
enamel earrings
enamel bowl
Japanese inspired enamel earrings
enamel pendants
enamel mismatched earrings
enamel dish with spoon
Details
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.
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!
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.
I am a member of the Guild of Enamellers, The Worcester Guild of Contemporary Craft and the Colwall Collective
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.
3 Counties Spring and Autumn shows since 2021, Craftworks at Elmslie House 2022 and 23, Take 4 Gallery 2021 and 22.
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
