Clare Hillerby
Handwriting forms the starting point for my work. Old papers featuring handwritten messages by unknown characters are sourced, interesting sections are extracted; messages become ambiguous, they are then combined with new metalwork, and contemporary stories emerge. The fragments of writing often appear as pattern with only hints of the original meaning. Contrasts of writing styles, scale, character, line, shape and colour are all important features, and combining various characters of handwriting they create new conversations.
Original papers are layered with newly created metalwork elements influenced by markings, textures and lines from the urban environment that they are found in. Silver is often oxidised for a depth of colour with details of yellow gold tube riveting to construct parts of the work to reference an industrial landscape. Semi-precious beads are added for texture and colour.
Contrasts have always been important, the old and new sit together in each piece I create, the reference to the precious and non-precious, decorative elements next to simple areas, the linear and the solid.
Further Images
Necklaces with sections
Two necklaces made from sections of semi-precious stones, chain and metalwork elements
Coupled necklace
Ovals of framed postcards on a length of hematite beads.
4 elements necklace
Long necklace with 4 metalwork elements at the sides.
Collage brooch
Brooch with found papers and metalwork.
Mixed circles bracelet
Bracelet with mixed circles, postcard fragment and loop of beads.
Oval postcard earrings with linear panels
Ovals of framed postcards with linear panels and smokey quartz.
Circles of paper small earrings
Framed circles of postcard and stamp.
Layered oval small earrings
Layers of black and white metalwork elements.
Postcard cufflinks
Fixed backed cufflinks with fragments of postcards.