Beads and their use in body adornment date back almost as far as human history, and I have always been drawn to the colour and drama that beadwork conveys. Most recently I have been exploring bead weaving and bead embroidery, using tiny Miyuki glass seed beads and Delicas which give a very uniform finish. I work mainly in pe**te stitch, an ancient form of bead-weaving with many variations that can
be used to add shape and surface texture. The semi-precious gemstones that I use as focal points are all handcut and polished by expert lapidarists who are passionate about bringing these beautiful rocks to light. The colours and patterns in these stones often provoke a memory or association that provides the starting platform. These are further embellished with freshwater pearls, smaller gemstone cabochons and beads, and swarovski crystal. I find a lot of my inspiration in the natural world. Organic shapes and infinite shades of green that bring to mind my childhood home of New Zealand, subsequent travels and current surroundings of the beautiful island of Jersey. I tend not to work from sketches, but let each piece develop it's own shape and character over many hours of stitching. All pieces are one of a kind. Commissions undertaken.
