Joanne handmakes fine artist jewellery with themes influenced by her love of nature. The one-off designs and bespoke pieces are created by hand in precious materials – 18ct gold, platinum, palladium and a wide variety of gemstones, including rare items and unusual cuts.
The style of work is often distinctly organic with twisting and dramatic shapes as well as many timeless and classic items. Joanne uses traditional techniques such as forging, piercing and repousse. Recently Joanne has developed a range of representational themes which often stem from her love of sketching and watercolours during her time away from the workbench. These ‘vignette’ items are rather like framed artworks that focus on one moment, giving insight into a particular subject. Designs are influenced by her love of nature, landscape, history, archaeology, ballet & classical music.
A major artwork was completed in 2018, to celebrate the 30th year of her shop, entitled The Annual Circle – a set of 12 brooch/pendants representing Joanne’s personal vision with the elements of flowers, foliage and landscapes within each month’s piece. All are completely unique and never to be repeated. However clients can order their own bespoke Month with the elements that are important to their own lives.
Joanne received a Jewellery BA Hons Degree at Central School of Art and Design in 1985. She opened her own retail premises and workshop in 1988 : Gowan Jewellers is within a 17th century building with a long history as a jewellers, in the picturesque small town of Sawbridgeworth on the Hertfordshire / Essex border. There are modern display cases, a consultation area for clients to discuss their requirements and the workbenches are open to view so pieces can be seen under construction. Joanne also takes part in selected craft and design shows around the country.
