Artist Statement

Plum blossom (Prunus mume) or méihuā, features prominently in Chinese visual and material culture. Its seasonal displays of blossom are important signifiers of resilience and perseverance, particularly in difficult circumstances. Therefore, this body of work, created during the pandemic, refers to plum blossom as a marker of optimism for the future. The designs presented here reflect each season of the plum blossom, and are translated from abstract personal visions into a form of visualisation that wearers and viewers might recognise and enjoy. Included in the collection are jewellery pieces that parallel the four seasons and ‘plum shadows’ associated with traditional Chinese freehand shadow painting. To explore the range of colours and textures identified with plum blossom, the materials used here included, paints, resin, paper models and metals. The jewels are then finished with silver and spray colouring, incorporating the craft technique of filigree, combining another traditional ornamental feature alongside the plum blossom.