Lisa Galvin, Facet (ART & OBJECTS 2023)

Photos:

Lisa Galvin

I’m constantly entranced by the visual properties of gemstones and crystals, particularly the refraction of light. The grain of the local Silky Oak (Grevillea Robusta) timbers draws similar parallels to gems in that each of its axes details a different pattern. I brought the properties of these noble materials into my practice of mixed-media statement jewellery-making in an unconventional and elegant yet practical way. The result of the design took three years to research and develop the process before coming to a final solution. Manufacturing started with hand-selecting offcuts of timber from a local supplier. I hand-carved individual beads uniquely in response to the timber’s characteristics, including the natural grain lines, knots, and colour variations. Pieces align with each other and around the neckline, akin to ancient Mayan stone wall practices. Beads are hand-oiled in a low-VOC skin-safe product. They are strung on sustainably sourced French grosgrain ribbon and secured with a bow, which can be tied short, long or layered (as pictured). Weighing in at just 200g per set, Facet can be worn comfortably all day long, unlike using gems that are multiple times heavier. Further variations in the Facet range include bangles, men’s accessories and home décor made from other local offcuts of varying tree species. A selection of coloured oils can also be applied, drawing out the selected timbers' characteristics.

Images have been resized for web display, which may cause some loss of image quality. Note: Original high-resolution images are used for judging.