With my heart on my sleeve, and my feet on the ground by Helen Clara Hemsley

Artist list

Helen Clara Hemsley

The title of this collection hints at Hemsley’s approach to life: a blend of heartfelt emotion and astute awareness that is also expressed in her work. 'There is a twist of critical observation, mixed with humor and a feeling of lightheartedness,' she explains.

To craft her unique pieces, Helen Clara Hemsley utilizes traditional sewing techniques, predominantly embroidery, and incorporates textiles and found objects to tell personal narratives that are simultaneously universal and relatable—often producing 'a smile and a little nod of recognition from others,' she observes.

'The materials and objects I use have an odd sense of familiarity about them, but at the same time give a perplexing feeling of not being completely sure why they are important, what they symbolize and sometimes where they come from,'  Hemsley notes. Indeed the whimsical, idiosyncratic appearance of her pieces often belies the countless hours Hemsley spends on their creation—every hour with her heart on her sleeve and feet on the ground.

Helen Clara Hemsley is a contemporary jewelry maker, curator, and teacher based in Copenhagen, Denmark. Born in South Africa, she graduated with honors from the Glasgow School of Art, Scotland with a degree in fine art sculpture. She has exhibited worldwide and her work can be found in the collection of the Design Museum Denmark.

Opening Reception: Saturday, 3 February: 11 am - 5 pm