I have always been obsessed with the decorative details of life which I collect on a daily basis. Sketches, photos and memories of these details gather in a vast visual library and form the basis of my designs. I use this information to layer multiple visual and cultural sources to create new shapes that are both fresh and familiar. For example, my collection ‘Aquifolium Sequence’ fused post-modern architectural details with Edwardian design sensibilities in a striking linear collection.
Using different materials is key to my practice and all hold equal potential and value for me. I enjoy the conversation between them, often pairing precious and non-precious or exploring the interplay and balance between surface finishes. The materials I use often hold narratives of their own. As well as recycled gold and silver I collect (some may say hoard) off-cuts and bin ends of unusual colours of Lucite, pieces of wood, vintage beads, stones and pearls, boxes of carefully categorised beach finds and all sorts of other unusual objects that are awaiting the right project to realise their potential.
I make my work by hand using traditional techniques. Working at my bench I hand pierce my materials with a jewellers saw before filing, drilling, riveting, soldering and forming my pieces. I believe there is a unique quality that comes from the relationship between hand and eye in making. A refined balance and a softness that industrial techniques cannot replicate; a perfect imperfection. I am passionate about the details that give each piece its energy - the soft shine of a hand carved form, the twinkle of a hammered rivet against the smooth Lucite, the tone of each pearl as it relates to a finished piece.
Ultimately I love seeing my pieces on others. There can be an amazing emotional connection when jewellery finds its right owner which I take great pleasure in witnessing.
Find out more:
Creative Twist podcast 2021 - Sally Vanderpump interviews Ella on reconnecting to her creativity and developing her passion for jewellery. Click here to listen.
New York Jewellery Week and Goldsmiths Fair Talk with Bella Neyman and Ellis Mhairi Cameron - Sep 2021