Donna Barry Contemporary Jewellery

Visual Art Scotland Annual Exhibition

2012-01-26T09:22:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy week and we're not even out of January yet! That is how I like it though, especially as I have been moaning how slow January has been this year! There's not been much work done at the bench, more applications for funding, competitions and preparing for our two Make Your Own Wedding Rings couples this weekend.

My 'Snow petal & Floral' collection of four pieces has been selected for the Visual Art Scotland Annual Exhibition this week. A sneaky peak of one pair of earrings won't hurt (pictured above). I never know whether to call these my 'Snow Flower' or 'Summer Flower' earrings. I'll leave it up to you.The Exhibition starts on the 4th February.

The Roamin' Rockets charity Event which was postponed in December due to bad weather conditions is now going ahead next week on the 2nd February, 7.30-10.30pm at Cargo, Edinburgh. Tickets are £6. Hope you can make it along!

Well, I'm off home now to get ready for my first ever Burns Supper! I got there eventually after 14 years living in Scotland!

Bye for now

Dx

January Blue Bargains!

2012-01-09T10:25:00.000-08:00

'Vintage Mirror & Oval loop' pendant

Silver, iolites & moonstone

was £110 now £77

(until the end of Jan 2012 only)

'Vintage Mirror' Necklace

Silver & iolite

was £180 now £126

(until the end of January 2012)

Happy New Year to you all! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and managed to get a good break! This year was my first Christmas ever where I had a whole two week period off work. All I can say is AMAZING! Just staying in Edinburgh with friends and a short trip up to Aberdeen for Hogmanay was just perfect. Lots of wine was drunk and delicious food eaten!

So it's my first day back at the studio today and I'm faced with paper work and the dreaded tax return! Now, I'm sure there are many of you out there who are facing the same dreary first day back or you may have already been back and just want January to be over.

To do my bit in helping you beat the 'January Blues', I'm offering 30% off on these two beautiful blue stone pieces from my 'Vintage Mirror' range only until the end of January 2012. The pendant is available in 16", 18" or 20" length and the necklace is approximately 16.5" long. There is only one of each, so if you are interested, please email me or give me a call.

And so back to the books!

Donna xx

'Roamin' Rockets' Charity Event postponed

2011-12-08T05:59:00.001-08:00

Unfortunately, due to high winds and bad weather, the 'Roamin' Rockets' Charity Event tonight has been postponed until January. Will let you know when a new date is decided.

Bye for now xx

Open Studios update

2011-12-05T08:32:00.001-08:00

As usual, I didn't manage to take any photos of our preview on Friday night! Mainly because it was too busy and we were enjoying ourselves too much! I did however, take some pics (above) of my display yesterday.

A great weekend was had by all! I even started my christmas shopping. There were so many lovely things to buy as Christmas presents! I can't say what I bought as it's a secret santa! This is something we do amongst some of us jewellers at Coburg (past and present) every year. I'll let you know once it's opened!

Now that that's over, I'm getting myself prepared for the 'Roamin Rockets' Charity Event at Cargo on Thursday evening (earlier post). I'm also making up orders from the Open Event and a few on-liners. So, better get your Christmas present orders in quick!
If you couldn't make it down to Coburg House on the weekend, come and visit me at Cargo on Thursday or feel free to contact me, if you'd like to make an appointment to see what I have in stock.

Hope you're all enjoying the real start of the Festive Season now! I'm looking forward to our Coburg Studios party in particular! :)

Enjoy your week!
D x

'Pretty Prices' & 'Black & Gold Bargains' at Coburg House Open Studios Event!

2011-11-27T13:14:00.001-08:00

'Corolla' earrings

silver

was £95

now £35

Find them in the 'Pretty Prices' Box

Next weekend, the 3rd & 4th December, Coburg House Art Studios opens up it's doors to the public. You can come along and visit the artists and makers in their studios and see and buy their work on show. We will be open from 11am both on Saturday and Sunday and closing at 5pm. Those of you who have been before will know how much wonderful jewellery, ceramics, paintings, textiles, and prints there are to see.

Exclusively at the Open Studios I have an 'End of Line' sale box. This time I will have two! My 'Pretty Prices' box will have items with up to 70% off! I'm also having a clear out of some of my oxidised silver and gold ranges, so a visit to my 'Black & Gold' Bargain box is a must!

I will also be selling embossed prints for £10 each! Each print was made by myself at the ECA print making department in 2002 while studying my Post Graduate diploma. The prints were developed by embossing my flat silver sheet designs into the paper. Sorry, there are no pictures of these, so you'll have to just come and see for yourself! One would make a great Christmas present! You could even get it framed by our in-house framer, also the Coburg Boss, John Gibson!

Hope to see you all there!

D xx

The Roamin' Rockets

2011-11-27T12:33:00.001-08:00

'Scale & loop' earrings

silver

£135

The Roamin' Rockets are four lovely ladies who are raising money for Breast Cancer Care. In the past they have organised Bake sales, sponsored leg waxes and raised money at Car boot sales. Next Thursday, 8th December, is the special event of the year where there will be many local businesses, music and stalls.
Frances, one of the 'Rockets' has kindly invited be to take part and have my jewellery on show. The big fund raiser event takes place at Cargo, Edinburgh, from 7.30 until 10.30pm. Tickets are £6. I hear there will be a free glass of bubbly too! Hope you can make it along!

The earrings above are a kind of old and new design. Sometimes it's good to go back to ideas and create new pieces! They will be on show at Cargo, unless they are sold at the Open Studios at Coburg House next weekend! There is only one pair, so better be quick! No need to worry though, as there will be a wide range of new designs on display!

More info on the Open Studios coming up! xx

Onliners!

2011-11-27T11:34:00.001-08:00

With Christmas approaching so quickly, I have barely had the chance to set up my website. I'm hoping to now set this up in the new year with a shop. Very exciting!! This will make it quick and easy for you to order. In the mean time, you can contact me (details above right), if you'd like to enquire about or order anything you've seen on here.

I also have my work on the following selling sites if you are looking for that simple and quick purchase. Lovedazzle, THE online designer jewellery store and two which are new! Trove Jewellery and My Solution Gifts have recently added my work to their websites. Trove Jewellery was founded by a good friend of mine, Sally Moore, who studied Jewellery & Silversmithing with me at ECA. You can find some of her own jewels on there along with guest artist Alex Monroe, who has designed pieces for celebrities such as Kate Moss and Amy Winehouse.

Tammy Woods, a lovely lady who has just set up her own online shop, recently invited me to sell on her website. She came to meet me at my studio last week to discuss the collection we would put on the site. My Solution Gifts not only has jewellery. There are gorgeous bags by Edinburgh maker, Katherine Emtage, amazing chocolate hampers by Hot Chocolates, scrumptious soaps by Planet Soap and opportunities to commission a painting or be taught by Dylan Lisle, who is also a Coburgie!

Soremi Jewellery has been an online seller for me for a number of years and my work is in the middle of refreshment as we speak. I'll tell you more once the jewels have been updated.

So, it's Cyber Monday tomorrow! Who's doing their Christmas shopping?! If you're in and around Edinburgh next weekend, why not wait and see what's on sale at our Open Studios Event at Coburg House! More details to follow...........

xx

Bascombe Photography

2011-11-23T10:51:00.001-08:00

Just had to show you a few photos taken by the lovely Mike Bascombe, professional photographer. Mike and his wife to be Kate, came to the studio for the day to make each others wedding rings with myself and Hannah Louise Lamb. His photographs were all taken on black and white kodak film. It seems the digital camera hasn't completely taken over! We like this :)
Mike has sent us a selection off the roll! To see them, visit our facebook page.

Enjoy x

Snow Petals

2011-11-09T08:04:00.000-08:00

Long Snow petal earrings

silver

Snow petal earrings

silver & 18ct gold

Snow flower brooch & Snow flower earrings

silver & 18ct gold

It's been a busy week, sending jewels off here, there and everywhere! The Bowie Gallery has received these lovely earrings and brooch as part of my new collection for them. The Bowie Gallery is a lovely place in Hereford. I used to supply Sara, owner of the gallery, with my work for a few years. After a couple of years of absence, I decided to contact Sara once again and here we are! Sara has also asked me if I would make her some work for the Hay Festival next Summer which is great!

Kaz and I also sent off our big boxes of jewellery to DAZZLE at the Royal Exchange Theatre today! It opens the weekend of 19th and 20th November and is on until 1st January. The perfect place to get your Christmas presents!

If you are in the Hereford or Manchester areas, go check them out!

Well, better get back to some jewellery making! Gone are the days when the Coburg Dazzlers go to the pub after a big send off! We're just too busy! A well deserved glass of vino will be drunk when I get home tonight though :)

Art of Gold

2011-10-28T09:15:00.000-07:00

Floral Wing necklace

Silver, labradorites & smokey quartz

£210

I've been a bit of an addictive blogger of late! There just seems to be so much going on at the moment! I was telling my good friend, Sally Moore of Trove Jewellery today, how my 'to do' list is as long as a pier! It was the first thing that came to mind that was very long!!:)

Anyway, just thought I'd let you all know, especially you lovely followers from the Leeds area about an exhibition starting today! It's called 'Tinsel & Tiaras' and is at the Art of Gold Gallery. I have a collection of 10 pieces there including this floral necklace. The exhibition is on until the 22nd January. Hope you can make it along there :)

Have a happy Halloween weekend!

D xx

Follow me on Facebook!

2011-10-28T03:52:00.000-07:00

Vintage Mirror Necklace

silver & iolites

was £180 now £144 (until 7th Nov)

Morning all! I am not the most technical minded of people, so when I managed to add a 'follow me' facebook icon to my blog (see top right hand side), I decided to extend my 20% off sale until 7th November! Any piece of jewellery you see here on my blog over £50 will be reduced by 20%. If you are interested in buying or ordering any piece, you can just e mail me or phone me before midnight on 7th November! Seems like a good time to get your christmas presents to me! :)

Oh, and if you haven't already, please click the facebook icon and 'like' my page!

Thank you!
xx

Ring project in a day

2011-10-27T04:06:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, A-level Art student, Mike spent the day with me in the studio. Mike came up from Kent for the day to do a ring project that we had planned back in August! Now that is dedication for you! Mike told me that although working with a jeweller or a maker of any other discipline, is not part of his course, he likes to set these kinds of projects to challenge himself and his teachers!

Mike wanted to make a ring in my stylised technique of fusion. As this was his first introduction to the art of jewellery making, I gave him a choice of two rings to make. He decided to make a flat shaped band (8mm wide and 1.2 mm depth) with a detailed flat wire which he fused onto the surface along the centre of the flat sheet, before forming it into a ring shape. I demonstrated and guided Mike every step of the way of the ring making process. However, Mike still added his own stamp to it with his extra reticulated surface texture and shiny finish. Here is the finished product and some shots of Mike making his ring!

Mike is a very talented, enthusiastic and patient guy, the recipie for a great artist! I wish him all the best with his A levels and studies to follow.

Dundee Delivery

2011-10-18T01:53:00.000-07:00

Clover bud necklace

silver & aventurine

For all my Dundee followers, I have new stock in at Dundee Contemporary Arts!
I have supplied their shop for a number of years with my work, and to my shame, I have never been along there. It's a little early to think about new year resolutions, but I think this has to be one of many. There'll be no time before christmas, but it is something I must do next year!

The rain has stopped now, so it's a good time to whiz around the corner to the studio!
Hope the weather is not too wet in Dundee either!

D x

No tricks! Just my treat!

2011-10-17T13:46:00.000-07:00

Snow petal & diamond loop pendant

silver, labradorites & citrine
was £110 now £88

To celebrate Halloween this year, I have a treat just for you! I am offering a 20% discount on any piece of jewellery over £50. This offer ends on the 31st of October and is only open to my blog readers. So if you do fancy treating yourself or being a little christmas early bird, then just contact me either by phone or email and quote this blog post.
If I don't have it in stock, I can make to order :)
Speak soon
Dxx

Jewellery Making Private Tuition

2011-10-12T14:06:00.000-07:00

Hello lovely potential jewellery makers!!

I am now taking on more private tuition students! From beginners to the more experienced, I can tailor a course to suit your needs. A course would usually consist of five two hour sessions, costing £200 plus your cost of materials. Single sessions can be booked thereafter at £40 each.
One day projects are also available. For example, making a simple ring or pendant. For full use of my expertise and my lovely studio in Leith for the day, it would be £100 plus materials.
Maybe you know someone who would like this experience as a gift. Vouchers can be given on request.

If this is something you might be interested in, then give me a call and we can discuss what you might like to do.

Think about it! :) x

My Stockbridge Stockist

2011-10-12T01:12:00.000-07:00

Clover bud necklace

silver & moonstone

I love Stockbridge! So I wasn't complaining this morning when I had to wander down to the Sarah Dallas Gallery to deliver a wee parcel of new goods :) The necklace above was one of them! A light and simple necklace. This is one of my favourites and for a change, I would be tempted to wear it! I know it's a bit peachy, but apparently peach is back in!

There was no time for mooching about the charity shops today, as I had to head back to the studio pretty sharp to get on with work!

If you live in Stockbridge or it's surrounding areas, check this lovely little gallery out. It is mostly a fine art gallery, however, you will find some real gems in Sarah's gorgeous little vintage cabinet!

xx

Calling all Dazzle lovers!

2011-10-10T12:27:00.000-07:00

Blossom bud & loop earrings

silver & labradorites

I hate to say it but Christmas is coming!!! I can't believe it myself, but even I have started my Christmas shopping list!
Therefore, as early as it may seem, I have been busy working on new pieces to send to my stockists. Ruthin Craft Centre received a refreshing new winter collection just last week from me. The 'Snow bud' necklace with labradorites and citrines (pictured below in the previous post) has already been sold before even making it to the cabinet!

My Lovedazzle page has been updated with some new pieces also! Take a look here. Lovedazzle has an Autumn offer of 20% off any piece of jewellery over £50 up until midnight 17th October! So why not save some pounds and start your Christmas shopping early!

Oh dear, I sound like an advert!!

Best be off!

New Necklaces

2011-09-20T07:23:00.000-07:00

Snow petal and twisted wire pendant

silver, labradorites & citrine

£130

Snow bud Neckpiece
silver, labradorites & citrine
£700
SOLD

Long Snow bud Neck piece with chain
silver, rainbow moonstone & turmolated quartz
£1150

Zephyr on Portobello Beach

I've been working on some new necklaces recently including two new 'Snow bud' neck pieces. I wanted to create something more simple and easier to wear than my usual cluster pieces. I began with matching the stones up and seeing what shapes and colours work together. The silver snow buds in both pieces are generally the same, but the stones and added chain to one of them give them a different look from each other. The long 'Snow bud' neck piece can be worn at different lengths, according to the size of the wearer and the neckline they choose to wear from day to day.
Take a look down the right hand side where there are some other new necklaces just designed and made by moi, just waiting to be snapped up!

I recently sent some work off to two new stockists, SH Jewellery in Morningside, Edinburgh and Kalo in the Shawlands, Glasgow.

SH Jewellery was opened four months ago by a friend of mine, Sarah Hutchison. This gorgeous shop/gallery has some lovely and interesting jewels, mixing it up with designers from all over the UK, many being from London. Award winning silversmith and jeweller, Sarah also works at her bench at the back of her shop and is available to chat to most days. There's not another place like this in Edinburgh. If it's interesting, unusual, bespoke jewellery that you're after, then this is the place to go......well apart from Coburg Studios of course!!!
Ooo.....and Sarah has a lovely wee spaniel named Ruby who will greet you at the door! :)

The image above is a pendant now on sale at SH Jewellery. Again, loving the greens/greys/blues that the labradorites create in different lights, working well with the yellow/gold citrine and silver.

Making some new pieces for Sarah Dallas Gallery in Stockbridge, so watch this space!

The studio has a cute little visitor today. It is Donna Doggie Day care around here once more. I'm very distracted, but I don't mind :)
Picture above :) Merryn is getting used to him slowly!
xx

Go on 'Like' us!

2011-09-01T09:46:00.000-07:00

We now have a new facebook page for 'Make Your Own Wedding Rings'!
The bookings are coming in now, and we have some lovely couples lined up over the next few months. Follow us on facebook, and if you are getting married and think this could be just for you, then please don't hesitate to contact us.

Objects of Status, Power & Adornment

2011-08-31T02:52:00.000-07:00

'Snow Bud Cluster' Neckpiece
silver, iolite and rainbow moonstone

It's been a busy month with the Edinburgh Festival in full swing, Open Studios and 'Dazzle'. Even though it's an exciting time, I'm glad it's over! My evenings are my own again! Phew :) I have been up to this and that but will tell you more later.

For now, here is a an image of one of my 'Snow bud cluster' Neckpieces. This amongst other pieces has just arrived at Mobilia Gallery in the States for their exciting exhibition 'Objects of Status, Power & Adornment' which starts on the 6th September and ends on the 22nd October. The brief was to make some new pieces with this title in mind. As I have been using semi precious stones over the last couple of years, it seemed to fit in quite well. We were also asked to include an older piece of work, so I revamped an old 'Feather petal' Brooch made from silver and 18ct yellow gold into a fairly large ring! As I was in a rush to send off the work, I forgot to take a photograph. We will just have to wait until it comes back, unless it is sold of course! That would be nice :) So if anyone is around and about in Boston, then go and have a look. I'm sure it'll be an exhibition you won't want to miss! There is also talk of this being a travelling exhibiton, so will keep you updated.

Right, I'm off to the studio. I have some rather scrumptious necklaces on the go at the moment. Watch this space!

Look what I found!

2011-07-27T12:51:00.000-07:00

'Clover Bud Cluster' Brooch
Oxidised silver & 18ct gold 2006
was £455 now £180

'Blossom Bud Cluster' Brooch, silver 2006
was £395 now £155

'Criss Cross' pendant

oxidised silver & 18ct gold 2003
was £160 now £65
SOLD

'Criss Cross' Brooch
Oxidised silver & 18ct gold 2003
was £350 now £140

While I was rummaging through the pre Open Studio rubble and through a drawer I hadn't been in for a very long time, I came across these two lovely 'Bud Cluster' brooches, 'Criss Cross' brooch and pendant! Both bud pieces are made up of separate units and soldered together in stages to create these solid but delicate clusters. The 'Criss Cross' pieces are made up of hollow ovals made individually, and fused together to form this patterned sheet. For some reason or another, they all must have been put away to fix in the future as they don't seem to have any pins on them. The far in the future being now, I have decided to fix them, spruce them up and put them in my 'end of line' box! As I have done the past couple of times at Open Studios, this is a '60% off' treat for only Open Studio guests! Many more end of line jewels (smaller pieces too) to be had, so don't miss out! The 'was' prices are the actual prices they were at the time, so with silver and gold going up as they have done recently, makes them extra special bargains that are also one off pieces!

I guess if you do see it here first, I can make an exception and give you first dibs! :)

xx

xx

And now for Open Studios!

2011-07-27T01:10:00.000-07:00

Do come and visit us at Coburg House! For you regulars, you know what it's all about and for those of you who don't, pop down and see some of Scotland's award winning artists and makers. A hub of 70 artists including a gallery all in one building! Jewellery, ceramics, textiles, painting, prints and more. Check out the Coburg House website for a taster! Hope to see you all there!

If you want to know what's happening throughout the year at Coburg House, Open studios, workshops, new artists etc, become a fan on Facebook!

So it's off to the studio I go to make beautiful jewels especially for you :) x x

Dazzling at George Square

2011-07-26T14:33:00.000-07:00

'Snowpetal & Square beaded loop' pendant
silver, rainbow moonstone, tourmalated quartz & tourmaline

'Vintage Mirror' dusty ring
silver

Edinburgh Dazzle is almost here once again! This year it has moved from the Traverse Theatre to George Square Theatre. As usual, there'll be a diverse range of jewellery from 50 jewellers to suit everyone's taste buds!
My big box of jewels are ready to send off, including these new pieces!
I'll be there most days during the festival! Looking forward to seeing you all there!
xx

The Wynn Wedding

2011-07-19T12:49:00.000-07:00

Mr & Mrs Wynn

The Bride
'Butterflower Drop' necklace, silver

Half Daisy earrings, 18ct yellow gold

Lisa on her wedding day 2008
'Blossom bud cluster' necklace and Blossom bud earrings, silver

'Butterflower' bracelet, silver & 18ct gold

The Rings
'Anglesey Coastline' ring, 18ct yellow gold
by Hannah Louise Lamb

Apologies once again for not having posted for a while! It has been a hectic couple of months, but not all work I have to say! Vegas and San Francisco had been a well kept secret for six months and last month flew in and flew by just as fast! So my mum and the lovely Michael got married. It wasn't your typical Vegas wedding. I know you're all wondering if Elvis was there, but no, he wasn't. Neither did they get married down town in a white chapel. Mr & Mrs Wynn, funnily enough, decided they would get married in the beautiful wedding suites of The Wynn Hotel! A fantastic day was had by all, well all six of us!

Above is a photo of the rings. My mum's being a 'coast ring' by the very talented Miss Hannah Louise Lamb. The ring is 18ct yellow gold and is separated in two parts by the Anglesey Coastline, mainly Treaddur Bay where they live. If you haven't seen Hannah's coastline rings before, click on Hannah above. The perfect wedding ring. Each one is handmade specially and is personal to each and every couple.

Members of the wedding party including the bride herself were also wearing some familiar jewellery :) My mother's necklace and bracelet were both of the 'Butterflower' range and made from silver & 18ct gold.
My sister Lisa, was wearing her very own Donna Barry 'Blossom bud Cluster' necklace, that was specially made for her own wedding day, three years ago.
I was wearing a 'Daisy' Wrist corsage, silver & 18ct gold with gold satin ribbon and 18ct gold 'Half Daisy' earrings to compliment. And last but not least, the 'Long Bud' cufflinks worn by my partner, William Ancell :)
Above are a few pics of the day and of course the jewels!

So it's all work work work now! Holiday blues have been dealt with and I'm all geared up for the Open Studios which is 5th-7th Aug and DAZZLE 5th-29th Aug! More on these later. I have been working on a couple of new things which I'll post up next week too.
Have a good weekend!!
D xx

The First 'Make Your Own Wedding Rings'

2011-05-28T13:15:00.000-07:00

Emma & Mick's rings

Last week, the very first 'Make Your Own Wedding Rings' took place at Coburg House Studios. Hannah Louise Lamb and I were excited and nervous to have Emma Walker, Director of Craftscotland and husband to be, Mick Pritchard, join us in teaching them how to make each other's wedding rings! Here Emma decribes their experience.

Thank you to Emma and Mick for putting their trust in us as tutors, and for being our first ever 'Make Your Own Wedding Rings' couple! You were great!

For more information, visit us at our new website www.makeweddingrings.co.uk

You can also check out our short film on YouTube demonstrating the ring making process below.

Butterflower Weddings

2011-02-25T09:51:00.000-08:00

'Butterflower' Wing Drop earrings, silver

Butterflower chain Necklace, silver & 18ct gold

It's all about weddings at the moment. It's that time of year when Brides To Be are preparing for their big day! Clare Chandler, owner of Clifton Rocks in Bristol, sent me this link the other day! I was delighted to find my Butterflower Drop earrings being modelled on page 49!

If you'd like a wee look click here and then click on the online wedding magazine.

Today, I had a visit from Sarah Dallas, owner and manager of the Sarah Dallas Gallery, a lovely little place in Stockbridge (Edinburgh). She chose a collection for her gallery which will be on show as from the 5th March. There will be some similar 'Butterflower Drop' earrings there too if you feel the urge to make a statement on your big day or any other special occasion for that matter. The earrings above a different version again from that of the ones at Sarah Dallas and Clifton Rocks. They do however, have the same impact!

If you are looking for some special presents for the bridesmaids or mothers of the bride and groom, just give me a call and we can arrange an appointment at my studio. I have a diverse range of designs in earrings, pins, brooches, pendants and more. If you're not based in Edinburgh you can find your nearest stockist (scroll down on the right) or if you'd like to order something you find on here, get in touch and we can take it from there.

Last month, I also updated my Lovedazzle page. Amongst some new pieces, you'll find another special Butterflower piece! (as shown above)

So if you're looking for some unique handmade wedding jewellery or just simply want a lovely floral piece, you know where to look :)

And a little reminder.........'Make Your Own Wedding Rings'

Have a good weekend!
D x

Make your Own Wedding Rings

2011-02-19T04:15:00.000-08:00

www.makeweddingrings.co.uk

Well hello! Apologies for not keeping you up to date with what's been happening recently. I have to admit I haven't really made anything since before Christmas. That doesn't mean to say I haven't been busy though! Amongst tax returns and planning the year ahead, myself and Hannah Louise Lamb have a new and exciting venture to share with you all! As you may have guessed from the title, we are setting up a workshop where couples who are about to get married can come and use our studio and our expertise for the day to make each others wedding rings! Check our new blog for more details! Bookings are now being taken!

www.makeweddingrings.co.uk

Over the weekend, I had a visitor over from the Isle Of Arran. Ann spent the day with me in my studio making wedding rings for her friends. She made a lovely pair of 18ct white gold polished rings! You can see her in action in the photos above!
Ann's request to do this with me was the source of inspiration that led myself and Hannah to our idea for 'Make your own wedding rings'! So thank you Ann! :)

I am also taking on one to one students now. So if you fancy learning the basic traditional techniques of jewellery making, or if you've had a bit of experience already and would like to learn more, please get in touch. We can discuss what it is you would like to do or I could set you a project! It's up to you! You can book for a five session block which is £200 (£20 an hour).

Have a good week!
D x

Flowers for Thought

2010-12-07T14:23:00.000-08:00

Blossom bud Cluster Necklace
silver, 18ct gold & Aventurine

Lace Floral Wing Necklace, silver & smokey quartz
£160

The Open Studios on the weekend went surprisingly well considering the weather! We really thought it was going to be a total wash out! However, it was just as fabulous as any other christmas open event we've had! I managed to get some christmas shopping done and did some lovely swaps too! Check the websites out below!

Emily Hogarth
Beth Legg
Misun Won
Erin Daly

I only have this week and a couple of days next week left in the studio before Christmas, as I will be working at the flower shop. So if you would like to buy anything, please place your orders as soon as possible! Just drop me a line or give me a call. My contact details are just on the right hand side.

It took most of the day for the studio to warm up today! We're all fed up of this weather, so here's some blossom bud and floral wing jewellery to brighten up our week :)

Snowfall

2010-11-26T07:55:00.000-08:00

Snow petal & diamond loop earrings
silver with labradorite clusters
£200

Blossom Bud Cluster Neckpiece
Oxidisedsilver & 18ct gold
£3600

It sounds like the snow is falling everywhere but here!! I'm sure it is on it's way though! My toes are like icicles sitting here in the studio!
So, since it's all about the snow and the Open Studios drawing near (one week in fact!), I thought I'd refresh the old blog with some snow petal and bud type jewels. Take a look down the right hand side. Maybe you'll find some christmas present ideas! If so, then do get in touch or visit me next weekend here at the studio to see the treasures in their true beauty! The other advantage is, you can try them on! That's if the christmas shopping you're doing is really for you! :)

I've been working on restocking the galleries recently. One in particular is Mobilia Gallery. Based in Boston, the lovely gallery owners, Libby & JoAnne Cooper have promoted my work ever since I left college in 2002. Above are just two of the ten pieces I have just sent them.

With the Coburg Christmas Open Studio Event just one week away, I better get back to making! I'm hoping to post up a few preview images of some of the jewellery that will be on show. So keep your eyes on this space!

Hope you have a great weekend!
D x

"Ready Steady Jewel" The Auction

2010-10-19T12:30:00.000-07:00

So, I have I know been a little lame lately. The last few months have been a bit of a whirlwind! Just as the dust is settling after Origin, it's Christmas stocking time! You can see where I'll be exhibiting and supplying just down on the right hand side there.

Now that the "Ready Steady Jewellers" (as mentioned in an earlier post 'Ready Steady Jewel') have designed and made their pieces, the work is now on show in the window of Hamilton & Inches, George St, Edinburgh. Go and take a peak at the gorgeous jewels that will go on auction this Saturday evening at the 'Out of the Blue Studios' Drill Hall.
For more info on the auction, check out

www.hamiltonandinches.comwww.preciousmetalsworkshop.com

You can see my earrings up for auction here

Hope to see you there!
D x

Origin

2010-09-13T14:15:00.001-07:00

Oval leaf cluster earrings
silver & garnet clusters
£410

Double floral wing earrings
silver
£95

Double floral wing necklace
silver & rhodochrosites
£180

With Origin not far away (just a week and a half in fact!) I have the fear! So much to do in a week!
I am making two large neckpieces just now. I am only half way through both and feel I may have forced too much pressure upon myself!! I feel some very late nights ahead this week!
One of the necklaces will be similar to that of the 'Blooming Summer Flower' Neckpiece which was sold at Dazzle and is shown in a previous post 'Summer Flowers'. The other will be a 'Snowbud cluster' type including icy white moonstones and blue iolites, again with a hand made, off square/diamond shape chain. I guess it is a kind of winter version of 'Blooming Summer Flower' Necklace!

If you're around and about the trendy area of Spitalfields Market, London from 23rd - 29th September, come and take a gander. I have a feeling there is going to be a lot of talent there!

http://www.originuk.org/

If you would like to come and visit me I will be on stand L11 with Miss Hannah Louise Lamb!

Looking forward to seeing you there!
In the meantime, here are a few pieces I've been working on. There will be much more to see, but whether or not I will have time to upload more before Origin, we'll have to see. You might just have to come and see it in the flesh :)

D x

Close ups

2010-08-27T07:57:00.001-07:00

Here are some close ups of the large fusion experiments! You can see the patterns and textures that the technique creates.
It seems blogger is having a few problems loading images just now so I will have to leave the rest until another time.

Have a good weekend! x

"Ready Steady Jewel"

2010-08-27T07:37:00.000-07:00

Such a busy busy month August has been! I have been meaning to post everyday for the last month without success! And so here I am finally with some news on what's been happening this month! Where do I begin?!..................

"Ready Steady Jewel"I have been invited to take part in this very exciting charity event! 12 jewellers will be taking part in a kind of "Ready Steady Cook" event only it involves making a piece of jewellery! Ian Nicholson, jeweller/silversmith and ex coburger is the man behind it so to speak! He will be gathering the jewellers together at his studio where we will be given 8 hours to make a piece of jewellery from a design brief. All twelve pieces will be exhibited in Hamilton & Inches (George St, Edinburgh) for 10 days following an auction at Out of the Blue Studios with the proceeds going to charity.
I will of course keep you posted with dates etc. There is some talk of it maybe being televised! Will let you know if this is going to happen. Very exciting, although a little scary! It is probably time for a wee challenge! :)

"DAZZLE"
Once again DAZZLE is on at The Traverse Theatre, Edinburgh. Unfortunately there are only a few days left, so best get on down there to make some last minute purchases! Don't worry, not all the best things have gone! The makers are constantly sending in new stock as they sell, and exciting one off pieces. I will be there tonight and Sunday night and will be happy to help you :)
My jeweller friend and coburger Miss Karen McMillan sold my big 'Blooming Summer Flower' Neckpiece (image in last post below) there last week which I was very excited about! Thanks Kazza! I was determined to have a few celebration drinks after my shift at Dazzle and suffered the next day for it!! It was worth it though :)

Rio Magazine
This was e mailed to me a couple of weeks ago. It's the August edition of the New Rio Magazine with one of my rings in the 'Ring Power' article. But most importantly, in a different article there is a wee picture of the original Coburg Studio pooch, Daisy Soo modeling one of my most expensive neckpieces!! I took this picture quite a few years ago one day in the studio, when our friend and ex Coburgie, Rebecca Faulding-Middleton left myself and Kaz to look after Daisy! :)
It does say that I am the owner, wish she was, but unfortunately she is not.

And Finally.....The Coburg Open studio weekend went well a couple of weeks ago! Myself and Kaz weren't able to be there for the Friday or Saturday as we headed off down to North Wales (my home land) for a friend's wedding. My lovely friends Jackie and Hannah were at the studio though and managed to land me some sales. Thanks girls! x x

Above is an image of my experimental silverware from my post graduate course seven years ago. These are the two biggest and most challenging pieces I made amongst other small dishes, napkin rings etc. I wanted to bring my personalized technique of fusion onto a larger scale. I thought it would be nice to dig them out, spruce them up and display them in this beautiful frame that I bought from the Scottish gallery sale. Standing out on the wall they seemed to attract a lot of attention at the open weekend!

And so August turns into September and there is no sign of slowing the pace down! Origin is just three and a half weeks away with many late nights ahead! Hopefully it will all be worth it! :)

I will be posting some new works for Origin as I go, so keep your eye on this blog!

D x

Summer Flowers

2010-07-03T06:09:00.000-07:00

Donna Barry 'Craft at Coburg' Exhibition
Coburg House Gallery

'Vintage Mirror' Cluster drop earrings
Silver, Smokey Quartz & Labradorites
£195
SOLD

'Blooming Summer Flower' Neckpiece
Silver, Labradorites & Citrines
SOLD

'Summer Flower' Necklace
Silver, 18ct gold & Golden Obsidians
£345
SOLD

What a great summer we've had so far! Since the Craft at Coburg exhibiton last month, things have been pretty hectic between working on upcoming exhibitions and sipping the odd pear cider or fruit beer in the sun!

The 'Craft at Coburg' Exhibition went very well indeed with the opening night bringing in crowds of people. The hustle and bustle may have prevented many from seeing everything, however sales throughout the exhibition proved that people returned to have another look with a view to buying.
Above are a few images of the jewellery I made especially for this exhibiton and my display as a whole in the gallery itself. I wanted each piece to look special and to sit together as a group like a work of art. Displaying them in frames this way, I think I achieved just that.
Hopefully this will be the first of many Craft at Coburgs!

Just now I 'm working on a number of exhibitons including our summer Open Studio weekend (see Forthcoming exhibitions on right hand side) and trying to restock some of my outlets.
All is going to plan.....so far!
Dx

p.s
I don't think I have mentioned that Coburg House Studios has a new website! Click here to view it! Information on the Open Studios is there!

Some restocking

2010-05-20T14:23:00.000-07:00

Snowbud cluster pin, silver & labradorites £110

A-symmetric Snow bud Necklace, silver & labradorites £240
SOLD

I sent off some new work to one of my stockists today. The lovely Saltbox gallery in Helmsley have been selling and promoting my work for the past 4 or 5 years. Here's a taste of what will be on sale there as from this weekend!

Remember if you like any pieces on here, I can take commissions and make to order!

Donna x

Clusters

2010-04-28T13:56:00.000-07:00

Blossom bud cluster brooch, silver & garnets

Blossom bud cluster loop earrings, silver & garnets

Snow bud earrings, silver & garnet clusters

Oval leaf cluster bracelet, silver, 18ct gold & garnets

Snow bud cluster brooch, silver & garnets

Just some recent pieces I have been working on! These were all sent off last week to two galleries, SDC and Mike Gell. Details of when and where are on the right in Forthcoming Exhibitions.

With Craft at Coburg slowly getting closer, I will be designing and making some special one off pieces with my lovely stones that I have recently bought :) They really are a treat!

Will post some info up soon on the 'Craft at Coburg' exhibition which is on in June.

More clusters on the way!

Dx

Dazzle at Merchant Square

2010-04-15T13:02:00.000-07:00

'Snowbud cluster' Neckpiece (2), silver & labradorites

Oval petal necklace, 18ct gold & garnets

Oval leaf & loop pendant, silver, 18ct gold, citrine & garnet

SOLD

Dazzle at Merchant Square, Glasgow is on now! The exhibition opened last Friday and will be on until 25th April, so get yourself along! Great show including new and interesting work by contemporary jewellery makers all over the UK.

I didn't make the opening myself, however myself and Kaz took a wee trip through on Sunday, an excuse for some shopping and vino! :)

I have been working on pieces for the next two exhibitons at the end of the month at Mike Gell, Nottinghamshire and SDC Gallery, Shorditch. I will be posting some images up soon!

Dx

Revamp!

2010-03-18T11:52:00.000-07:00

Blossom bud cluster loop pendant, silver, citrine & smokey quartz
SOLD

Blossom bud cluster loop earrings, silver & smokey quartz
SOLD

AFTER

Blossom bud cluster Neckpiece, silver, 18ct gold, citrines & smokey quartz

BEFORE

I have had this work hidden away for the past month, saving it up for the 'Jewellery in Bloom' exhibition at Platform Gallery in Hatton Garden. The past day or so I have been putting this big necklace together to finish off the collection. I have revamped an old necklace, added some gorgeous citrines, smokey quartz and random squared chain and Voila! I am very pleased with it :) Before and After images are above.
'Jewellery in Bloom' runs from 28th March until the end of May. If you're in or around London go and take a look at my jewels in the flesh! The new gallery looks pretty swanky from the images on the website! I hope to pay a visit myself next time I'm down in London.

Next, it's finishing off a group of work for Dazzle. I have just a few days left to do this, so will be working some long days. Weekend off first though in the Deen and looking forward!

Have a great weekend!
Dx

Bella

2010-03-17T03:13:00.001-07:00

Just had to post up a pic of the very cute new addition to the studios! Her name is Bella! She is Miss Grace Girvan's, just 10 weeks old. We all love her very much, so much so, we don't actually mind all the little presents she leaves us under our benches!

Anyway, best get on. I have alot of work to do this week. Hopefully going to finish Platform Gallery's work today, so will post some pics up later.

Have a good day!
x

Dazzling!

2010-03-15T15:08:00.001-07:00

Vinatge Mirror Neckpiece with Amazonites & Smokey Quartz £452

My sad sunday turned into a magnificent Monday!! Thanks to my favorite studio pal, Miss Hannah Lamb, my camera is now alive and well again :)
Also, I've uploaded some new pieces including this Necklace onto my on line Dazzle profile, so check it out here! The new pieces may not appear for another 24 hours, so bear with us.

Now, just to get a move on with some new pieces for Glasgow Dazzle. I wish there was more hours in the day!
x

Broken

2010-03-14T13:46:00.000-07:00

I spent the weekend in the studio and achieved a great deal. It's amazing what you actually get done when there's no one to chat to or no dogs and puppies to distract you! I have finally managed to complete a new collection for the love dazzle website (check links), so I'm hoping to update my page on their site tomorrow. Yippee! My Sunday did end on a bad note though as I dropped my camera after loading the photos up this evening! Not a happy bunny!
However, on the brighter side of things, I picked up these beautiful old frames for next to nothing at the Scottish Gallery sale this week. I'm quite excited about the next display I'm going to do. This will probably be our 'Craft at Coburg' exhibition in June that will be held at the Coburg Gallery. There are no details yet, but will let you know when I do, so watch this space!
Well, I guess I better start searching for a camera repair man, or maybe just as well to get a new camera!

Happy Sunday x

Burning the candle

2010-02-28T10:01:00.000-08:00

Floral Blanket Necklace, silver, oxidised silver & rhodonite £260

After a weekend of both work and play, I have to say I am over it! There was no getting away from the fact that I had to drag myself to the studio both yesterday and today! I have been working on a small collection for the reopening of Redbarn, a lovely gallery in Cumbria not far away from Penrith. I have had work with them ever since they first established themselves five years ago.
It was time for a refresh of my work and so it seemed like the perfect opportunity to get some of my new work there in time for the reopening on the 6th March. Redbarn has been closed for a couple of months since the festive period was over, so hopefully people will be flocking there next weekend!
The necklace above is the main piece of the collection. The stones are rhodonites. I love this pink colour with the dark grey speckles through it and thought it would be perfect to have a combination of both silver & oxidised silver to compliment the stones. The bud in the centre has been oxidised. For those of you who don't know what oxidization is, it is simply dipping the silver in liver of sulphur to get this black or dark grey finish.

After receiving my lovely stones and silver in the post this week, I am dying to get on with making. However, the Goldsmiths Fair application deadline is just a week away. Very tedious indeed! The Goldsmiths Fair happens once a year at the Goldsmiths Hall in London during october time. I have exhibited at this prestigious fair a few times although haven't done so the last couple of years, so fingers crossed!

I will post some more pics of the redbarn work this week. It is a mixture of old and new but works quite well as a group.

Right I'm off to curl up on the couch!
Dx

Framed

2010-02-24T07:55:00.000-08:00

For those of you who came to the Open Studios at Coburg House in December you will have seen how I displayed my new work. For those of you who didn't, above is a photo! I didn't take any photos myself (shame on me!), however I was pleased to find that Erin Daly (also a Coburg jeweller) had! www.erinjdaly.blogspot.com
Thanks Erin :)
Originally, I found these 1950s/1960s photo frames in charity shops around Stockbridge and Leith, and I am now on the lookout for some more! If any of you know where I could get hold of any, please let me know. I've already had a peek on Ebay, but no luck unfortunately. I realise it's quite difficult to see from this picture the details on the trims, but I hope you get the picture!
I'm hoping to add some more to the display for the 'Craft at Coburg' Exhibition in June and the next Open Studios in August.

I have ordered some stones today, mostly labradorites and garnets just because I love them! I plan to make more work in the snowbud and mirror ranges as they have proved to be very popular and have hardly hit the galleries yet! Before I go full speed ahead though, I must finish what I have been working on first. Again, I promise they will be posted up soon!
I have had some lovely time off recently, spent with family and friends, wining, dining and retail therapy!! Now, I'm just finding where I left off again at the studio.

Remember the 15% discount is still on until the 1st March!!!

Dx

Jewels & Flowers at Valentines

2010-02-10T09:19:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my first posting this year! My apologies for being slack with the blogging. I have been meaning to write since the new year, but have been concentrating my efforts elsewhere. Mainly tax returns and accounts. Let's not go there! So, for the past couple of weeks, I've been working on more new pieces which are yet to be finished or photographed, but as soon as they are I will post them up.

Now, I know I'm a bit late on the whole Valentines thing and reminding you of my lovely jewels for your ladies! Therefore, I am taking the opportunity just now to give you a 15% discount on any piece of jewellery that is ordered before the 1st March. That includes any of the work you see on here or my website www.diversegallery.com (apart from any pieces that are one offs and have already been sold).

I won't be in the studio over the next couple of days so I won't be able to take any orders for Valentines now (another reason to make it up to you all!).
However, I will be working at the flower shop as from tomorrow. So check out narcissusflowers if you would like to order some beautiful bespoke flowers for Valentines!

Hope you have a good weekend :)

Christmas Fear!

2009-12-08T10:35:00.000-08:00

SOLD

After the success of both Open studios (Made in Clerkenwell and Coburg House Studios), the fear has set in this week! I am today and for the rest of the week busy with orders and sending last minute stock ups to my stockists and galleries. As from next wednesday, I will be working at the flower shop up until xmas, so better get those orders in now!!!! :)

Coburg Gallery is open everyday now up until the 23rd Dec including weekends! So if you've not been down to see what gorgeous presents you can buy for christmas, or have been and think you've missed the chance to buy what you had your eye on, don't panic! The gallery is open everyday from 12 till 6pm, and thursdays until 8pm.
www.coburghousestudios.blogspot.com

You can see my work in the window :)

Just 3 days.......

2009-12-01T13:33:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year once again for our christmas open studio weekend! It's going to be a blast! As usual, there will be three floors of studios with 65 artists opening up their doors to all you lovely people. So much to see............jewellery, ceramics, textiles, bags, painting, prints and much much more. Our gallery will also be open to the public for the weekend and everyday up until christmas. So come and get your christmas shopping! Check the coburg blog for details of the open studio weekend and for gallery opening times. www.coburghousestudios.blogspot.com

I'm especially excited about this open studios as I have new work to show. As seen here first of course! However, there is more, so come and see :)

Last weekend was spent exhibiting at the studios at Craft Central in London with my good friend Helen and coburgie ceramic/glass artist, Andrea Walsh (Andrea will also be at Coburg House this weekend). I wish I'd taken some pictures of Helen's studio, as she has just such a gorgeous space. It looked great with all our work in it too! :)

Well, hope to see you at the studios on the weekend x

Mirrors & gold leaf

2009-11-25T12:37:00.000-08:00

Just posted up some images of new range no.2 (scroll down on the right under contact details). I've been working on this alongside range no.1 (see previous post) over the last few weeks. These pieces came from the cufflink shapes and forms. With this range, I wanted to create something simple and easy to wear.

I'm pretty tired this evening, so I'll leave it at that. I'm off to London tomorrow for 'Made in Clerkenwell', so best be off to finish the rest of my packing and early night.

Goodnight x

P.S
The Snowbud range with stones have been moved further down on the right.

Adding a little colour

2009-11-22T08:37:00.000-08:00

Friday was a day of triumph! I finally finished my new jewels for the Open Studios galore this month. I would have carried on making until the bitter end, but I ran out of stones and almost all my silver! Just as well, as it has given me the chance to organize myself with pricing and display etc etc, all the usual tedious stuff at the end.
So, it's down to London I go on Thursday and looking forward to seeing Helen and Andrea (see previous post). I'm also intrigued to see how this new collection of work will go down!

The necklace above is THE special piece of this collection. It is made from silver & labradorites. Above this post, I have added some more new pieces from this range. Other stones which I have used are Rhodochrosites, garnets and white moonstones.
Hope you all like :)

I do have another range to release, but I think it would be too much for you to take in all at once! Well, maybe it's because I just can't take anymore downloading images today!

Other things that are going on at the moment...........
The Ruby Soho website is now up and running so go and have a look. Link
I have a new stockist in Hampstead. Jiq Jaq gallery will have my work on sale from the first week in December!
'Gifted' is now open so go and take a look. I will be once the hecticness is over! www.nms.ac.uk
Also, myself and Kaz are having our website revamped just now. It's coming along nicely thanks to our fantastic and very patient website designer, Gary Dempster! (Hope he's reading this!) Will let you know when it has gone live :)

I am in the studio on a Sunday once again! Yes, it is true. I have no social life! Roll on Christmas!

'Made in Clerkenwell' Winter Open Studios

2009-11-08T15:12:00.000-08:00

I have been busy working away at the studio all weekend and have managed to get quite alot done! I am currently working on new work for 'Made in Clerkenwell' Winter Open Studios. For details, check the Craft Central link on the side.
The talented Helen Beard has kindly offered myself and fellow Coburger Andrea Walsh to share her studio especially for Craft Central's Open Studio weekend. We will all being showing our work together. Check out their websites. Both Helen (bottom image) and Andrea (middle) produce beautiful ceramics. They are probably my two favorite ceramicists. I'm not bias!!!
www.andreawalsh.co.uk
www.helenbeard.com

While I was in London last month I made a visit to Hatton Garden and bought some lovely strings of stones. My favorite ones are some rough cut labradorites which I have incorporated into a new large cluster neckpiece. I am quite excited about it! Once I have made some other pieces with these stones, I wil post some pics up.

I am also working on some other designs which tie in a little with the some of the cufflink shapes and forms.

And finally.........although a bit late, as promised I have posted some more pics of the new cufflinks (above). Hope you like. Not all the photos are great as some of them were taken in a bit of a rush before send off for Dazzle!
Dazzle has just opened at the Royal National Theatre and is on until mid january, so if you're around and about the South Bank, go and have a look. I will be :)

A taste of cufflinks

2009-10-07T13:47:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the cufflinks I have been making over the last two weeks. There are quite a few other designs and hopefully variations of each. For example, oxidizing, texture and gold leaf. I haven't used gold leaf since I was at college, but thought I would give it a go and see how it would look. I'll let you know how it turns out.
I haven't done any men's jewellery at all before. I thought it would be good to broaden my range and market. Actually, I did make a pair of cufflinks once as a present but they were just too dainty for a man and broke quite quickly! I guess I've always just been used to making feminine, light jewellery! I promise you though, these aren't! And they won't break! Another reason I wanted to try the cufflinks was to get me thinking of new ideas and something a bit chunkier.
At the DAZZLE exhibition in London (check link for details) there is always a separate section for men. Thinking I might add a couple of small man brooches in there which are in the middle of production as we speak! Not sure about them just yet or whether there is a market for man brooches?

I'll be putting more images of cufflinks on with prices at the end of the month. They will be starting from £65. So watch this space if you think your husband, father, or whoever might like them for christmas :)

Not long back from bag making class which was good. It has been a long day, so relaxing bath, then bed for me.

Goodnight
x

Not so much chat and more work!

2009-10-07T09:18:00.000-07:00

I have today managed to finish my collection for the 'Gifted' exhibition at The National Museum of Scotland. I'm quite suprised at myself for having the work ready so far in advance! This image will be used for my postcards which the NMS will design and print.

It has been very quiet here at the studio without the girls, who are all sell sell selling down at Origin and Goldsmith's Fair! However, I have had the company of wee Merryn and Leon (The King, as he is known) all day. Talking to the dogs, maybe a sign of me going mad!

Well, I'm off to my bag making class in a bit. May post again later, as I have been working on a range of cufflinks for the men's Dazzle.

Donna x

Going live!

2009-09-14T11:13:00.000-07:00

At last the Dazzle on line shop has gone live today! This means you can buy cool jewellery to suit all your individual tastes from Dazzle all year round! Take a look, you won't be disappointed :)
www.lovedazzle.com

I'm working on some new things at the moment, so watch this space!

Spoonished!

2009-08-28T06:15:00.000-07:00

Well, here's the spoon. There were a couple of small changes along the way as usual. I haven't really made anything other than jewellery for a few years now. It was quite refreshing to work on something that isn't to be worn for a change. No pin, no catch, nothing! A practical object, maybe not, but it is still only the beginning of an idea. A testpiece really. I like the fact that it looks like two different pieces. Maybe there will be more spoons to come. Who knows....maybe when I have a bit more spare time on my hands.
My spoon is on it's way to join all the other spoons as we speak :)

Above the spoon pics is our gallery poster for the festival. This is the last weekend that we will be open. Tomorrow and Sunday 11-6. Since this is the last weekend, we have made a special effort to bring in some more jewellery, bags, prints and wood and silver work. So if you haven't been down yet, come take a look. It's all very beautiful :)

You Spoon!

2009-08-26T13:17:00.000-07:00

Getting up late this morning after another night shift at Dazzle, I made it to the studio for the first time in a week! It was a slow start but quite productive in the end.
I was asked last week to come up with a spoon for an exhibition at the Scottish Gallery which opens next week! www.scottish-gallery.co.uk The exhibition will include spoons designed and made by a number of established contemporary jewellers and silversmiths.
I've had to come up with something quite quickly so I've already pierced the shape (bottom drawing) in it's flat form. It is a double ended spoon and each end will be formed so that when you hold the spoon in your hand, the opposite end will curve into your hand. The next step will be to fuse the ovals on top. There will be a gold oval involved somewhere but haven't decided where yet. At the moment the spoon is not strong enough on it's own as the silver sheet is too thin, but I'm hoping that once it's all fused together the over lapping will make it less delicate. Will let you know how it turns out :)

Grace Girvan, another fabulous fellow jeweller at Coburg House (check links) made me aware of the term 'You Spoon!" today. I think it's maybe a scottish thing! Still not quite sure how you would define the word, but Grace says it's like saying 'You Tube!'. Another scottish term! I suspect it just means 'silly'.

Better stop the silly talk now x

Dazed & confused!

2009-08-20T15:27:00.000-07:00

Haven't managed to get much done at the studio this week as I've been working at the flower shop and Dazzle. We had a post Open studio meeting last night which was followed by a few bottles of wine, and some rather drunken chat at Sopi's! Today started off in a bit of a daze, but we managed to make quite a few sales in the end!
Apart from that, what time I have spent in the studio this week has been spent thinking about what to do next. I am feeling in need of a change and perhaps creating a new range.
This has meant going back to the drawing board literally. This new collection may or may not happen, depending on time scale, as I do have a few deadlines to work towards now.

For those of you who still haven't seen our new gallery space, our summer exhibition is still running and open for business on the weekends, Saturday & Sunday 11-6 during the festival.
www.coburghousestudios.blogspot.com

Dazzling it!

2009-08-14T05:50:00.000-07:00

This week has been yet another busy one! There hasn't been much of a chance to recover from the Open Studios. The past three nights I have been working at the Dazzle exhibition at the Traverse Theatre (check links for details).
Myself and coburg jewellers, Kaz, Hannah Louise Lamb and Sally Grant (check links) all had our work featured in the Edinburgh evening news on Monday, advertising Dazzle. Our work was modeled by the gorgeous fellow coburg jeweller Erin Daly. I don't have a link for Erin, but you can view an image of her work on the coburg blog.
The 'Corolla' earrings above are one of the pieces that were modeled for the paper and are on sale at Dazzle now for £95.
The Neckpiece is a special one off that is also at Dazzle just now. Last year, I sold the bracelet version of this at Edinburgh Dazzle, so fingers crossed this will go to a good home too :)

On the right (below blog archives), I have added some more images of work I have sitting in the studio. I just have to work out where I will be sending them next!

Thank god it's friday! Sophi's for a glass of vino is the way to go. Roll on 6 o' clock! x x

Last night at the studios.......

2009-08-08T12:00:00.000-07:00

After a long stressful week, the Open studios weekend finally kicked off yesterday and with great success! Doors opened for the private view at 6pm and very quickly all three floors were full of curious people! Regulars and newcomers were both loving our new gallery space! Plenty of sales, wine, and hangovers have been had by all! There's still tomorrow to go so fingers crossed for some sales :) If you haven't been down yet, do so. The studio doors will be closing at 6pm tomorrow.
Above are some photos of the opening and buzzing atmosphere at Coburg House last night!

The Big Clean Up Day!

2009-08-04T15:13:00.000-07:00

The Big Clean Up happened today! This happens twice a year, usually on the Tuesay before we open up our studios to the public for the weekend! A big list of jobs is drawn up by our very own Coburg Queen, Kaz Roberston! (See links)
After getting the communal spaces cleaned and presentable, it was time to tackle the mess in mine and Kaz's studio! The picture above is just a small 'before' example of just how messy and disorganised the whole studio was this morning! I will post some 'after' shots when the open weedend is in action. For details of the open studio weekend check the studios blog www.coburghousestudios.blogspot.com Next I will need to set up my work. This isn't going to happen until Thursday! Leaving it till the last minute as usual, but Dazzle duties are calling! I will be spending the next couple of days at The Traverse Theatre setting up the Dazzle Exhibition.
For those of you who haven't heard of Dazzle, check out www.dazzle-exhibitions.com The Edinburgh Dazzle exhibition starts on the 7th Aug and will be on throughout the festival ending on the 31st Aug.

Preparing or NOT preparing for the week ahead!

2009-08-02T12:29:00.000-07:00

Today has not been very productive. But then I guess it is Sunday! I was meant to start gutting the studio so there wasn't much work to do in the week (as there is little time as there is!). However, I did pop into the studio to hand in my work for the Coburg Gallery in preparation for the Open Studio exhibition. Here are the three pieces I will be displaying in our new gallery!
None of them are new pieces but I thought they would sit nicely as a group.

The Daisy wrist corsage (first photo above) was made a couple of years ago as part of a limited addition. There are about 6 or 7 in total. The idea came from making up buttonholes, bag corsages and wrist corsages for wedding parties and guests at the flower shop.
I thought it would be great if you could have a wrist corsage that wasn't made for just one day and then disposed off. The precious flower has two flat loops on the back where the ribbon threads through. It can be worn tied around the wrist a number of times, or just once with the rest of the ribbon flowing. The ribbon is interchangeable, so you can wear any colour to suit your outfit for your special occasion.

Tomorrow I will be in the flower shop and then down to the studio to tackle the mess! The joy :)