‘Living by the sea in Devon provides me with endless inspiration for my work - it comes from the landscape, and from the effects of the sea air and the tides on the beaches. The strandline is where I find my source material to work with.
My collection relies heavily on collecting stranded seaweed from the high tide line on my local beaches which I then sculpt in wax and cast in recycled silver or I sand cast in my studio. I have collected sea glass for many years and instead of adding precious gems I rework the glass to make more ethical gems of my own which I set into the silver seaweed resulting in stunning original pieces of jewellery. I like to imagine the journey that a piece of glass has made before being picked up on the beach and then through my process, that journey continues with an added layer of preciousness through its association with the wearer.’
‘After a year studying with Victoria Sewart in 2007 I made the decision to return to full time education and I graduated from Plymouth College of Art in 2017 with a degree in Jewellery and Silversmithing. This has enabled me to try new techniques and to have the freedom to experiment. The university experience has broadened my horizons and increased both my confidence and my skills. I was thrilled to be presented with the Victoria Sewart Showcase Award which means that my work is now stocked in her beautiful contemporary jewellery gallery.
I am a Maker Member of MAKE Southwest and have recently become a member of the Green Maker Initiative.’
“Val’s work beautifully captures the essence of the places where she gathers the natural materials that inspire her. Owning a piece of her jewellery is like holding a fragment of the seashore transformed into something eternal. Wearing the seaweed inspired pieces gives me a deep sense of connection to the landscapes I love.”
Jane, Devon
