ARTIST STATEMENT – AEQUOR COLLECTION

This collection is informed by a kind of oceanography, the study of natural underwater structures and creatures. According to the Ocean Foundation, the world’s oceans play an important role in mitigating climate change and understanding more about marine species, the effects of rising temperatures, and the development of deep ocean ecosystems, is integral to achieving a sustainable future environment. Therefore, these pieces of jewellery emerge from wider concerns to appreciate these underwater life forms. While the objects in this collection are replicated in materials that are known to be harmful to marine ecology, the purpose is to decide how such substances might be used responsibly and effectively, rather than to dismiss them outright. Silicone and resin produce transparent layers, and allow for incredible light effects, stilted silver frames and solid forms are incorporated to exaggerate the clearness of these materials; weight and texture are deceptive, inviting curiosity from the viewer or wearer. Such translucency affords the wearer some autonomy, as the jewellery might be arranged to perform bright surface patterns alongside bold coloured fabrics. Rather than close down conversations on environmental matters, these jewellery pieces, motivated by forms found in nature, are intended to act as provocations, stimulating discussions on agency, materiality and responsibility.