The final project continues....

In my last blog, talked about how depression has been a factor in my life, and I'm finding myself becoming more and more interested in art therapy since experiencing the positive impact of making stuff first hand. The physical act of making, and tapping into the creativity helped me come out of the other side stronger than I have ever been, and for the first time, excited and hopeful for the future.

For the next weeks I'll be finishing my final project at college. The theme I've chosen is a suite of jewellery inspired by architecture. I've always liked architecture and have come to realise since doing the course, how much this influences the work I produce. The jewellery will be made up of well being pieces aimed at those who struggle with anxiety, depression or nervous tension and other related issues.

Coping mechanisms which have been shown to help alleviate symptoms include grounding techniques and mindfulness and my jewellery is being designed to give the wearer a means to always have something on hand to aid in these methods. Each piece will simulate one of the five senses.

Sight – using colour, light and concepts of optical illusions to create moving pieces that have a primarily visual impact

Sound – through the use of tubing and weighted elements, the movement of the piece will create sound when activated. Or contain the operational elements of a music box

Touch – this piece will focus primarily on providing different textures, shape and movements

Smell – this piece will create the diffusion of a calming scent such as lavender or the wearer's preference when its elements are moved

Taste – this piece will provide a flavour element in addition to movement. Current ideas include vapour / electronic cigarette type mechanism without the nicotine or some form of cavity for sweets/snacks

I'll be posting behind the scenes photos on instagram if you'd like to check these out: www.instagram.com/enchantednymphltd

UAL L3 Diploma - Final Project!!

This time last year, I was ill with depression, a condition which has intermittently effected me throughout my life, and for the first time ever I found myself in the position of being unable to work and had to be signed off. I was off work for 6 months, during which time my employer was undertaking a restructure, and I was successful in having my application for voluntary redundancy approved after three attempts at applying for it. 

 

What was a dark time in my life, actually turned into a blessing and has pointed me in the direction with my life that I'm in now, and one which I love. When I was first signed off work, the idea of watching day time TV was really unappealing, and I discovered the Hobby Craft shop. I began experimenting with different mediums, making birthday and Christmas gifts for family and friends, and I am convinced that without this creative outlet, I would have continued to struggle.

 

If you'd have asked me a year ago what I'd be doing right now, I wouldn't have had a clue. I hadn't yet seen the advert for the UAL Level 3 Jewellery Diploma course at Manchester College while browsing in the art shop for something new to occupy my hands and my mind. It's crazy to think that I'm now working on my final project and in a matter of weeks, my time at college will be over.

 

So, in tribute to all those out there who have found themselves experiencing anxiety, depression or any other condition which left them struggling, my final project is going to be designed with you in mind. I will be creating a suite of kinetic jewellery, or simply put, jewellery that moves and does more than just look pretty, which is designed to give your hands and other senses something to do and bring you back/keep you in the moment.

 

 

Over the next few weeks I'll be finishing off my research, finalising designs and making these pieces so stay tuned for regular updates. If you want to see the behind the scenes progress shots, check out my instagram account at: https://www.instagram.com/enchantednymphltd