I am a contemporary jewellery designer currently living in Corrimal, Australia. I really believe you can live a life you love and do the things that make your little heart sing. For me this means workshops and tools (drool), singing really loudly to punk music (or attempting a Missy Elliot rap), travelling the world, surfing, bungee jumping, sugar-free treats, art deco design, neat geometry, unisex clothes, black diamonds and making making making. The more I make, the happier I am. I somehow got the idea in my head I will build my own house and all the furniture in it (watch this space). I like to make everything, but making jewellery is my absolute favourite! It can be sentimental, conceptual, experimental, cultural, commemorate a time in life or a special event, I love how jewellery is treasured. On my right hand I wear a gold ring given to me by my Grandma Pearl when she passed away. It was the first ring my Grandad ever gave her, which he hand-engraved himself. It's the sweetest ring and although it's not my usual bold style, it rarely leaves my finger.
All pieces are designed and handmade by me in my little coastal studio. The aim is to create interesting, tactile, well-made pieces you love to wear. Something that grabs your attention and that of others. A piece of jewellery to keep, value and enjoy. I want more people to understand and appreciate handmade. Imagine what a cool place the world would be if we all valued and supported the makers and their trades in our local communities. Stranger things have happened right?
2008 saw my big move from Adelaide to Sydney to get stuck into studies in contemporary jewellery and object design at Enmore Design Centre. To say I loved it is an understatement. I graduated with distinction and my enthusiasm for metal and tools began.
The following two years I was unbelievably fortunate to spend time with master jeweller, Rick Southwick. Honing in my hand skills, learning the ins and outs of the industry and picking the brain of my most admired jeweller.
Recently I completed my jewellery manufacture studies. Got some sweet skills under my belt now.
My work has been exhibited in a number of venues in Australia. These include Depot Galleries, ESP Gallery and gaffa gallery, Sydney, Guilford Lane Gallery, Melbourne, Griffith Regional Art Gallery and Sturt Contemporary Arts Centre, Regional NSW and The Design Centre Enmore. I also have professional experience in fundraising auctions, curating and coordinating exhibitions, catalogue photography and public speaking.
When I'm not in my studio, you can usually find me in the ocean catching a few waves with The Seagals (Maroubra's own all-girl surf crew), in front of a world map sticking pins into my next adventure destination, dancing around my house or baking a new sugar-free, gluten-free recipe.
You can find more information, my blog and a variety of my work at my website: amyradjewellery.com