Out of this World

Artist list

Julie Blyfield, Helen Britton, Christa Lühtje, Catherine Martin, Jaqueline Mina, Jaqueline Ryan, Etsuko Sonobe, Ruth Tomlinson

Ruth Tomlinson is inspired by stories of forgotten underwater worlds, enchanting seascapes, abundant coral gardens and hidden nautical treasures, whilst Julie Blyfield also takes inspiration from nature; most notably from her native botanical landscape of Australia. Jacqueline Ryan’s jewellery is preceded by studies derived from living organisms, marine plants, flowers and seeds, whilst Helen Britton’s work is informed by her experience of the vast and layered history reflected in the built environment. Working in precious metals, Christa Lühtje favours bold, pure forms; often incorporating black onyx and iron. Jacqueline Mina’s superb technical accomplishment in manipulating precious metals is combined with a fine painterly eye and sources of inspiration include the Venetian Palazzo Fortuny.
Catherine Martin was the first ever westerner to graduate in Kumihimo - the ancient Japanese art of braiding. The designer-goldsmith later developed the Asian art into a painstaking weaving of fine gold wire by hand. The resulting silken jewels are breathtaking in their sensual play of light and form. An established Japanese jeweller, Etsuko Sonobe creates striking understated pieces in gold. This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to view collections from some of the finest jewellers working in the UK and Internationally today.