Creative Research Residency at JCU Special Collections & Umbrella Studio

In November 2023 I had a brilliant opportunity to research at James Cook University’s Special Collections at the Mabo Library. I was researching the Sir Charles Maurice Yonge collection titled ‘British Marine Algae’ of 35 stunning pressed seaweed collected in 1884 by Annie Slade in Torquay, UK. I had this treasure all to myself for one week to explore through drawing their vibrant colour and form in detail.

Following on from that, I was given access to the jewellery making section downstairs Umbrella Studio for 3 weeks, where I created inspired versions of the minute details in various media like copper, silver and Shibuichi by using the chasing and repousse, a very old method of hammering relief into metal.  I have not yet finished these little pieces and will continue to create more small objects or jewellery and exhibit these in 2024.

I owe a huge thanks to all those involved and made this opportunity possible: Some of those people are Bronwyn Mc Burnie, Helen Hooper, Louise Cottrell, Liz Downs, Kate O’Hara, Erin Ricardo and Amanda Galea.

Me researching by drawing from JCU Special Collection, ‘ British Marine Algae’.

One of my copper creations from British Marine Algae at JCU Special Collections

Me doing chasing and repousse in red pitch at Umbrella Studio.