Ann Bruford

26 Apr

Maker Showcase

Evocative Objects

Maker Member Ann Bruford is best known for her silver textural jewellery. She recently undertook an MA at the Arts University Plymouth to investigate the potential that new materials could bring to her practice whilst also researching into the emotional bonds that tie individuals to place, and how touch enhances this attachment. This new series of ceramic jewellery and vessel forms are a first response to this period of study and exploration.

Inspiration has been drawn from battered flotsam and jetsam, rusting machinery, rockpools and pebbles on local beaches, as well as a faded museum collection of Echinoderms (starfish and sea urchins).

26 April - 7 June 2025

Maker Showcase Gallery

About the exhibitor

Ann Bruford | Jewellery | Devon

Ann is a contemporary studio jeweller working with both precious and non-precious materials. Her practice focuses on a considered design process together with laborious hand fabrication and finishing techniques. Her designs explore the passage of Time with the associated erosion and corrosion, resulting in sculpted forms with textures and patinas layered one upon the other.

Most recently, forays to the award-winning Royal Albert Memorial Museum in Exeter have resulted in a fixation on the extensive collection of marine specimens in the Percy Sladen collection of Echinoderms (starfish and sea urchins). The resulting forms and textures have been created by forging, chasing, punching and etching designs suggestive of sea life and beach flotsam. As the wearer interacts with a piece, constant handling it, they will over time imprint their own personality on the surface and enhance the water worn finish I am aiming for.

Ann has a BA Hons degree in 3D-Design from Brighton, where she specialised in small scale metal work. Her work is available to view at galleries and curated Fine Craft shows.

annbruford.co.uk