LEEDS GUIDE
July 2005
Preview Follow Me
An exhibition of jewellery and metalsmithing
that takes a crafty look behind the scenes
A
collection of work of seven jewellers and metalsmiths whose pieces
have been featured at Kath Libbert jewellery Gallery since they
graduated, Follow Me offers the chance for visitors to
look beyond the work and see what processes are involved in its
construction.
Much of the artists' work is on show, from metallic spectacle cases
to wire birds, but it is the documentary presentation of their journey
from conception to the final piece that offers the most insight
into each individual's journey. Featuring stills of the artists
at rest and in the studio, they talk through their designs, as well
as their methods of working, personal lives, background and experience.
Yoko Izawa creates 'veiled' jewellery which she feels relates back
to the japanese culture in which she was raised, whilst Cathy Miles'
birds made from iron binding wire and found materials are often
vehicles for her own moods, as she wants people to see her 'view
of the world'. Dot Sim sees her jewellery as reflective of the Scottish
countryside in which she lives, taking inspiration from her daily
observations, whilst Annabet Wyndham takes her fascination with
kitchen objects and manifests it in the creation of a collection
of small table utensils. Lynne Kirstin Murray's colourful jewellery
(pictured) contrasts delightfully with Jenifer Wall's sleek platters
and spectacle cases, and Fiona Cameron completes the exhibition
with her collection of jewellery and vessels constructed from base
and precious metals, drawing on the Scottish landscapes of her childhood.
Follow Me is at first a fascinating exhibition of the many
creative possibilities of metal and jewellery, all differently approached
but with equal measures of skill and dedication. Delving into the
makers' psyches adds a very welcome dimension though, as it's often
a perspective that is difficult to see and even harder to guess
at. Until 2 October, Kath Libbert Jewellery, Salts Mill,
Saltaire
KW
