designs gallery, south west scotland ~
   
designs gallery, south west scotland ~  
        
         
        Natalie Vardey, jewellery ~  
           
















 

Natalie Vardey's gold and silver jewellery is beautiful, unique and collectable. From wedding and engagement rings, to Celtic knotwork, pearl tiaras and all types of jewellery, her elegant and classical styles suit all ages and are perfect for special occasions and day-to-day wear.
  
  My grandmother made her own hats, perfect pastry, and vestments for the clergy. Sitting at a large table in her spectacular creations, she sewed minuscule stitches on rich garments with a group of doughty ladies of the parish. As her young companion, I learned the meaning of effect and detail at that table, and it was only when I grew up that I appreciated the importance of how much I had absorbed from those women.

Years later, I lived by the sea, without electricity, on a small island off the West Coast of Scotland. Elemental extremes and resourcefulness were an integral part of my life. I changed my work practises to embrace the lack of power, rather than be frustrated by it, and since then regularly set myself challenges to define how I approach my work. I spend my days totally engrossed in fine detail.

I have been knitting, crocheting and weaving precious metals for years and a distinctive use of pure silver wire and pearls ensures my average working focal length is kept at 6”. It is not surprising then that wide horizons are an essential balance to my life. In contrast to the pearl ranges, which lend themselves perfectly for weddings, I make intricate, constructed jewellery for everyday wear, in silver and coloured golds, work which includes deceptively simple ideas that illustrate the jeweller’s art.

Collections ~
Broughton Gallery, Biggar;
Aberdeen Art Gallery;
Gracefield Arts Centre, Dumfries (in Touring Craft Boxes);

Publications ~
May 2006 Independent on Sunday

Media ~
Series of radio interviews for Spring Fling ( incl. Radio Scotland, & WestSound)

Memberships and Associations ~
Applied Arts Scotland (past committee member).
Craftsnews Scotland.
Dumfries and Galloway's Open Workshops Spring Fling Weekend Steering Committee.

  
       
designs gallery, 179 king street, castle douglas, s.w.scotland ~ open 9.30 / 5.30 ~ closed sundays