about
Life has never been dull…’ is a phrase used often by Laurie. A desire to travel the world inspired her to move to Europe on her own at the age of 19, leading her to explore 45 countries by sail, rail, air and thumb. It was the technical challenge of making jewellery and the process of creating something beautiful from a flat piece of metal that felt both exciting and magical to her, motivating her passion for metalsmithing. The processes involved in metal work…the designing, cutting, shaping, filing, texturing, manipulating, polishing and more into forms from her imagination is rewarding, reminding her of the constant changes in our lives as we are shaped by our experiences. Laurie’s work is currently available at galleries and retail stores on Vancouver Island as well as in Vancouver. Laurie’s styles, patterns, and inspiration change regularly, and her jewellery appeals to collectors who have a love for individuality and an eye for original design. Handcrafted in her sunny Victoria studio.
artist statement
My artistic intent is to create memorable pieces of jewellery in various metals and forms. The metals I use are gold-filled, fine silver, sterling silver, copper, ‘jewellers’ gold’ (a mix of brass and tin – non-toxic) and bronze (copper + zinc in non-toxic levels), and I sometimes put together mixed metals in a design to create something unique.
My sources of inspiration/influences range from nature (botanical), travel/culture, research into historical references, trying out new techniques, other artists’ work, magazines, social media, various teachers I have employed privately. Many forms/shapes are quite organic in that they are not reminiscent of a particular shape.
My work is recognized for its style and uniqueness. Rarely do I make an identical item in the same metal. I make one piece at a time rather than pounding out dozens of the same thing.
The best part of making jewellery is the thrill that it gives me when I see someone wearing a piece of it…that is my ultimate reward.
