Saturday 20 November 2010

Maker of the Day - Jean Wilkinson


Jean Wilkinson is a jeweller and silversmith who is fascinating by changing metal into beautiful shapes and capturing the essence of a form. She is currently exhibiting at MADE10.

One favourite living craft maker.
Phil Barnes. Phil is an amazing talented enameller with such a depth of knowledge and experience.

What was the last art/craft/design thing you purchased? or What one product/item do you really covet?
I coveted a chased silver dish made by Irish Silversmith Brian Clarke, it was exquisite. The last art piece I bought was a piece of lalique opalescent glass, quite amazing!


At age 18 who influenced your style? Was there any individual who very much helped you on your way?
Brian Clarke Silversmith and Phil Barnes Enameller were essential to where I am now.

What’s currently on your i-pod, cd player, tape recorder?
Dire Straits and Santana

Where and what is your studio?
My workshop is outside the village of Headcorn in Kent. It is an old coach house with plenty of space and light.


What is your favourite (art) website?
My Favourite art is Plique a jour enamelling period 1890 - 1920 and I spend a lot of time surfing the whole Art Nouveau, Jungenstil period references to find information and pieces made then.

Surprising activity/hobby?
Latin and Ballroom dancing

Do you have a good work/life balance? Are you able to switch off from art work?
Not really, it seems to occupy my mind constantly!


What one word would describe your feeling of doing your work?
At One (Sorry that's two words!)

Do you think art and craft has any real importance?
I think its vital to us. The makers live it and the customers make it part of their lives.

What do think are crimes against good taste & decency in art/craft/design?
Cheap, bought in, mass produced pieces being sold as hand made items.

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