Lydia Miriam Jones
Statement:
Living in Tanzania and volunteering at ‘Neema Crafts Centre’ for deaf and disabled has inspired my current work; each piece reflects my own attitudes towards jewellery and materialism. My passion for making is fuelled by traditions and skills I was exposed to whilst there, in particular a ‘bottle to beads’ recycling process.
The journey of my pieces starts with the collecting of materials: glass bottles; newspapers and other found objects which are translated into new forms through the use of low-tech production, such as slip casting. The use of these items, which would normally be discarded, may challenge our perception of value, preciousness of materials and of our possessions. I explore crafts through traditional roots yet use western facilities, not being particular about perfection, but embracing imperfections as beauty.
