• Blog
  • 06 May 2016

Joanne Thompson – Sculptural Forms

Chain Design 4 - Curled Lariat Necklace in silver, 90cm long. Joanne Thompson 2013
Chain Design 4 – Curled Lariat Necklace in silver, 90cm long. Joanne Thompson 2013
New to Goldsmiths’ Fair, jewellery designer Joanne Thompson will be displaying her incredible sculptural chain maille jewellery at the Fair this autumn.
Jo at work in her studio
Jo at work in her studio
Joanne completed her MA in Jewellery at the RCA in 1995 and went on to receive the Crafts Council’s Setting Up Award in 1996, which gave her the boost to create her own studio and business. In 1996 and 1997, Joanne was also commissioned by De Beers to create a unique piece of jewellery for the Diamond Day, Ascot prize-winner and was then asked to attend the Young Achievers reception hosted by the Queen at Buckingham Palace. Joanne has always been fascinated the circle and it has informed her work for many years. Ancient chain maille patterns and the way they hold their shape on the body, how they lose their form when laid down, are constant inspirations. Joanne is always experimenting with scale, weight, form and texture. The result is sculptural and voluminous forms that nevertheless feel light. When seen in its two forms, one craves to touch the chain maille and feel the jewellery’s surprising strength despite the appearance of weightlessness. Joanne has created some wonderful videos to display the sculptural effects of her work. Using a mixture of silver and oxidised silver, Joanne creates jewellery that can be worn as a statement for a special occasion or as something more modest for every day. It is essential for Joanne that her work has movement for the comfort of the wearer. Don’t miss Joanne at Goldsmiths’ Fair 2016, week two, stand 14.

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