One of the aspects I love most about what I do is commissions. Talking with the customer to understand what’s important, exploring options, then working on a design that is everything they were looking for.
This blog tells the story of a wonderful commission from 2020; Christmas presents for 11 members from three generations of a family. The customer’s intention behind the gifts was that after lockdown the family could get together for a meal out, wearing their custom made pieces. And with this in mind, the pieces would be connected by a black and gold colourway.
Tie Slides of different styles within the same overall black and gold design concept.
A zoom conversation with the customer helped me understand more about the people the gifts were for which helped me source pieces and create designs to suit each individual. As well as furthering my jewellery learning, this took me on a journey to work with cufflinks, tie pins and vintage brooches!
Vintage brooch hand painted in Flow Creativity signature petal design inspired by Art Nouveau.
One of the items was to be a statement brooch. Much searching led me to the idea of using vintage brooches and a great find of a pair of brooches were then hand painted in different designs using the black and gold colourway.
Gold plated Cuff Links in Art Deco inspired design with hand painted matt gold circles on black.
Cuff Links presented another new challenge and I was pleased with how these turned out.
Statement pendant with hand painted impression of gold berries and leaves in gold leaf.
Stakes were high with this pendant as I bought the last one available from the supplier!
Sometimes designs come about by chance; I love when that happens! The border came about intuitively: while working with the paint I noticed it was settling in a way that resembled the painted piece being unwrapped. It was an unusual framing effect and I decided to leave it as it was. The use of gold leaf was an “in-the-moment” inspiration adding vibrant tones to a display of leaves around the berries.
All the pieces ready to be wrapped and packed
Complementary Gift Wrapping was included and I loved getting these ready with matching ribbon and decorative berries.
On Christmas morning my thoughts turned to the family members opening their gifts and I felt much appreciation for this opportunity.