London. Perspex and metallic foils. Won Janet Fitch Prize at Chelsea Crafts Fair, 2000. In the collection of the Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle. Outlets include Gill Wing, London & Harley Gallery, Worksop.
Wendy-Sarah's Work
The main motivation of my work is to bring a sense of preciousness to plastic jewellery. I have always thought plastic, though not inherently precious, to be a beautiful material. My jewellery is made from a composite of clear and coloured acrylic, and metallic foils. It is made by a unique technical process, which I have developed through experimentation of materials. The result is rich in pattern and texture, and iridesces with vibrant colours. The smooth, curved surfaces and simple, bold shapes allow the light to reflect and refract, giving the depth and luminosity of a precious gem. Stainless steel wire adds technical interest to the pieces by using the natural spring to create tension claspings. Some cling gently to the body, whilst others form shapes that open to allow the body to pass through, thus enclosing it.
The inspiration for my work comes from several sources. I am especially interested in the 1950’s. The strong forms of the architecture of this time appeals to me in its simplicity. Many interior objects from this period are made up of simple shapes contrasting with thin lines and this is a major influence on my work. Also, the explosion of colour in design around this time is a theme I continually explore. Lime green, lilac, yellow, orange, lurid pinks - I enjoy mixing colours like these in a way which would not normally be seen.
Some examples from tropical nature also have the qualities I am looking for. Flamboyant flowers, with delicate stamens, and butterflies in electric colours, shimmering with iridescence.
Other makers I am interested in include Naum Gabo, Emmy van Leersum and Pol Bury. Their use of shape, plane and line to create beautiful, yet simple, objects is one of the main ideas featured in my own work.