about Alys
Alys graduated from The University of Derby in 2004 with a BA in Sustainable Design and Practice. Since then she has worked as a jeweller, maker, designer and artist in a variety of roles. She completed an MA in Contemporary Craft at Nottingham Trent University in September 2016. She works part-time, from her home studio in Sherwood, Nottingham, and is lead tutor at Nottingham Jewellery School, splitting her time between the things she loves best - designing, making, teaching and creating jewellery - and her two daughters Matilda and Florence.
about the jewellery
"My work begins on paper. I draw to discover and learn, inspired by the natural and man-made world around me. Recording observations, experiences and responses creating a bank of visual inspiration .
​
These studies are continued in a 3D form in my jewellery, a continuation of the same visual language. Each piece of jewellery is a sculptural exploration of colour, texture, line, form, and pattern. I aim to embody an aesthetic of imperfect simplicity. To reduce each design element to it's simplest and most refined form whilst maintaining the spontaneity and energy of the work.
I work in a range of materials - metal, wood, stone, acrylic - exploiting materials qualities to create a visual narrative. The elemental character and inherent variations in the natural materials create a tension and contrast against the cold perfection of the man made.
​
I don't make regular jewellery - even the rings and bangles I create are irregular, oval shapes. No-one has round fingers so why would we wear round rings? The imperfect forms fit our imperfect bodies and are flattering, comfortable and contemporary. I create work in small collections of one of designs and explorations of a theme. I also create bespoke, commissioned work combining my creative practice with the requirements and desires of each customer".
​
​
​