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I am a mixed media artist and jeweller, based at my home studio in Frith End, on the Surrey/Hampshire border. I graduated with a BA(Hons) in Jewellery Design at Middlesex University in 1997 and gained a PGCE from Roehampton, University of Surrey in 2003. I have worked in both primary and specialist art education for over 15 years. I trained with the British Association of Art Therapists (BAAT) as an ARTiculate facilitator to support well-being through engagement in creative activities. Now working as a freelance educator, I run a variety of workshops for Watts Gallery, Guildford, The Lightbox, Woking, Creative Response, Farnham and for local schools.
Can you tell us about your creative practice?
Trained as a jeweller, I am drawn to objects on a miniature scale, collecting tiny natural treasures wherever I go. These finds are often the starting point for my work, whether that be a collage, a print, a piece of jewellery or a tiny sculpture. I’m interested in capturing our encounters with nature throughout the changing seasons and in celebrating the incredible biodiversity of our world. I aim to highlight the importance of noticing, appreciating, and conserving what we are so fortunate to have.
What inspires you to create art?
My work is inspired by the natural world and the deep connection humans have felt with it throughout history. Many of my works combine found elements and natural objects cast in silver. Drawn to curated collections of objects in museums, both natural and made by human hand, I aim to create my own evolving collection of curiosities, as amulets for the modern age.
Where is your favourite place to feel inspired at Watts Gallery?
I am inspired by the woodland and gardens of Watts Gallery and enjoy climbing the winding path up to Limnerslease when I am teaching there. As wildflowers and plants are a theme in my work, I delight in seeing the variety of wildflowers that the team at Watts work hard to conserve. Natural imagery and its symbolism is evident in Mary’s work throughout the house and chapel and I appreciate that connection between the inside and outside spaces.