I began this project while volunteering at Agnes Riley Gardens, a community garden where I’ve been involved since 2022. As I was digging in the soil, I noticed small pieces of broken glass and metal- possible remains of Oakfield House owned by Mr Friderick Reily. Instead of letting them go to waste, I began collecting them with the idea of turning them into unique jewellery pieces that reflect the garden’s history and the people who have been part of it.
By upcycling the broken glass and metal found in the garden, I hope to create pieces that not only showcase their beauty, but also bring up memories of people and their lives. It’s a way to honour the garden’s past and the community that has come together to maintain it
“The Journey” is a project which starting point was one of London parks, a magnificent green space in the south part of the metropolis. During my research, I was drawn to two distinct themes: Nature- reflected by the texture of bark and the symbolism of the spiral as a representation of a spiritual journey. To bring my vision to life, I chose porcelain and recycled copper wire as my materials of choice. My aim was to create abstract and graphic jewellery pieces that capture the essence of these themes.
As an artist, I believe that the materials I choose play a vital role in the artistic process. That’s why I carefully select materials that align with my non-waste philosophy and passion for sustainability and responsible environmental practices. In the case of “The Journey” collection, I chose to work with recycled copper wire and clay. Not only are these materials visually striking and meaningful, but they are also environmentally friendly and compliant with my non-waste philosophy. I take great care in ensuring that my artistic creations have minimal impact on the environment, and any bits and pieces left from the production process are repurposed or recycled, aligning with my commitment to responsible environmental practices.
The Motaki collection is a unique and vibrant necklace collection that embodies a celebration of the beauty and diversity found within multicultural London.
One of the defining characteristics of the Motaki collection is its commitment to sustainability and eco-consciousness. This is evident in the materials used to create the necklaces. Upcycled yarn is employed, giving new life to discarded textiles and reducing waste. By incorporating this element, the collection advocates for environmentally friendly practices while adding a touch of individuality to each piece.
The necklaces in the collection are primarily crafted from textile, while also incorporating glass seed beads and elements cast in resin. Additionally, some pieces feature hand-fabricated objects that undergo electroforming with silver and copper, creating intricate and beautiful metalwork through an electrically charged process.
The combination of diverse materials and artisanal techniques in the Motaki collection allows each necklace to embody the essence of multicultural London. The unique blend of colors, textures, and designs in the necklaces mirrors the multicultural tapestry of the city, where different cultures, traditions, and people come together harmoniously.