Emma Whittaker*
Emma Whittaker | Jewellery | Devon
Emma makes miniature, wearable sculptures that tell a story. Jewellery that connects the wearer to their special places, the skies, land, water, birds, animals, rocks and plants. Specific features of the Dartmoor landscape, cartography, archaeology and ancient symbols are depicted in hand engraving, inlaid with gold wires and set with gemstones.
Traditional metalsmithing methods are used to form precious metals and set stones. She handcrafts hinges, catches, creates filigree from fine wires and sculpts elements in clay that are hand cast.
Sustainable and ethical approaches are at the centre of her practice. She set up the Green Maker Initiative with MAKE Southwest and actively researches and promotes sustainable craft. She works with recycled silver and gold, fully traceable, ethical gemstones, ‘non-mined’ geologist finds, and quartz from her garden.
Emma has been teaching and researching in universities since 2000. With a background in fine art and experience design, she developed a site-specific narrative practice, exhibiting internationally. Retraining in the miniature world of fine jewellery, she runs her jewellery business, Expanded Skies.
Emma welcomes commissions for engagement, wedding rings, brooches, bracelets and necklaces, particularly those that ask her to evoke particular landscapes.