Intrinsic to Kate Brightman's work is an exploration of scale and its limitations when concerned with the wearability of jewellery. Looking to the natural world for inspiration Kate's unusual and exciting jewellery is designed to invite attention.
Kate experiments with a wide range of materials and techniques. Organic shapes and forms are manipulated, fragmented and changed in scale creating new and interesting three dimensional objects. The combination of precious materials with non-precious materials creates an interesting dialogue as they oppose each other in terms of cost and tradition yet compliment each other aesthetically. Each collection of work is handmade making the work unique and highly desirable.
The 'Domed Collection' combines precious metals with polyester resin. Clear resin surrounds highly polished metal dishes creating a magical illusionary effect. Similar components are brought together to make aggregated forms that have a clear order or sequence. Regularity and uniformity are key themes in this collection.
In contrast to this the 'Wooden Collection' has a natural quality consisting of machine turned rosewood that has been embellished with genuine gold leaf. As well as having an organic influence the design is informed by process resulting in the investigation of symmetry. Ways in which this can be manipulated is under constant scrutiny.
The 'Splat Collection' includes highly sculptural yet wearable objects inspired by a natural, flowing form. This amalgamation of work is not restricted by symmetry and allows a freedom in design, looking at how the objects may work when not being worn.
Stockists
Lesley Craze Gallery, Clerkenwell Green, London
Charmian Beaton, Maidstone
Image credits (from left): Domed Bangle (Kate Brightman), Gilded Rosewood Bangle (Kate Brightman), Splat Collection (Kate Brightman)