1. What is your inspiration? 

I am inspired by my experiences in travelling and living in various countries. Many of the momentous changes in human society have come about through the technical revolutions of the Bronze and Iron ages. Goldsmiths are skilled metal workers who have a great affinity to advances in metallurgy and technology. I am inspired by the historical expression of these advances and I try to give a ‘modern’ interpretation to these influences. I am influenced by Roman architectural forms and often re-interpret elements in my designs. New and individual shapes in gemstones also forms a part of my design direction and philosophy.

2. What brought you to jewellery? 

A mentor and friend introduced me to the Gold and Silversmithing course at RMIT in the early 1980’s. Like many students I was challenged by the difficulty in manipulating metal. I learned very quickly that ‘understanding’ the physical and chemical qualities of metal allows you more scope to develop practical and challenging work.

3. What is your connection to techniques and processes? 

As a teacher of Gold and Silversmithing I have been challenged to have a strong knowledge base of materials, technologies and processes in order to stimulate learning among my students. I embrace the challenge to continue to learn as the knowledge base changes. 

4. What sets your work apart? 

I am a practicing Goldsmith, Platinumsmith and Silversmith and the ability to work competently in all these areas gives me the ability to work at a scale and mixture of techniques that few master. I can cut and set gemstones and I also incorporate timber and unusual metals such as Titanium and Niobium into my creations. My tableware, brooches and rings often incorporate subtle hidden meaning and messages and yet they are often bold in scale and design.  I think my work is unpredictable as I have never wished to be ‘pigeon holed’ as a designer and maker of a fixed style. 

5. How do you hope the wearers of your work feel? 

I hope that they have a sense for themselves how involved the maker was in the making of their piece and how it holds a special significance for them too in the connection that they make with the piece.