Pat Holcombe
"Jewellery is created
with patience and passion. It should be a joy to look at and easy to
wear and my hope is that it brings the same joy to the wearer as it has
to me in its making"
I come to jewellery and
metalsmithing from a background of teaching science and mathematics. I
have always had an interest in gemstones, pursuing a basic gemology
course on my way to completing an Honours degree in Geology, from the
University of Queensland. My metalwork & jewellery training was at the
Albuquerque School of Jewellers and the Gold-Silversmithing Institute in
Albuquerque. I continue to learn by experience, via workshops and
through colleagues.
My style is quite varied,
since my preferred works consist almost entirely of "one off" pieces ~
either custom made to reflect a client's individualism or as exhibition
pieces. My own preference is for clean-cut lines and geometric shapes,
frequently asymmetric, but often influenced by ancient designs (perhaps
reflecting the Native American influence of my training). I use many
combinations of materials and textures and frequently incorporate some
form of colour, such as precious and semi-precious stones, shell, suede,
patinas and enamelled silver. I use local materials and gemstones where
possible, sometimes cutting and polishing them myself but forever I'm on
the lookout for uncommon materials that will enhance my pieces.
In recent years, the
colourful medium of enamel, the potential and the challenges it
presents, have been strong driving forces in my work and is now one of
my favourite (if still untamed) techniques. Vibrant, subtle or dramatic
effects are equally tempting, but the most exciting aspect of enamelling
is the boundless range of ways to incorporate these glass gems into
jewellery and decorative objects.
