I was born and grew up in Hathersage in the Peak District and come from and artistic family. My parents met at the R.C.A. in 1947 and I was constantly surrounded by creativity as a child. I graduated from Birmingham Polytechnic in 1991 with a BA (hons) degree and set up my silversmithing business immediately. I worked for a number of years on many prestigious silversmithing projects with clients such as David Mellor, Brian Asquith, Robert Welch, Donnington Park, Alessi and Wedgwood. I learnt how to work with engineering accuracy. I also gained knowledge of unique approaches to design and manufacture. I am fortunate that I have been able to apply this extensive background of expertise to my designs. With this grounding, and working from my own studio workshop in the heart of Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter, I design, develop and manufacture my own contemporary luxury silver products for the dining table and modern home. My work has an acute attention to detail, with form, function, texture and movement at the heart of my ethos. My past experience shines through in my work, but I remain loyal to the influence of the north Derbyshire peaks.
I employ traditional techniques and modern technology, alongside new methods I have developed myself. The resulting work is beautiful and unique, functional, tactile and organic but maintains some of the engineering elements of my background. Simplicity is key, with imaginative and engaging functionality. I work efficiently and effectively in my design studio and workshop where I find the drawings, tools and materials speak for themselves. I believe that well thought out designs and products alongside acute attention to detail can dramatically improve the quality of our lives.
