Mandala – Calton Hill, Edinburgh
It’s not unusual for artists and designers to have alternative jobs and different ‘irons in the fire’. One of Julianna Grove’s designers – Hannah Ayre, as well as being a talented ceramicist (see her beautiful hanging decorations here) is also an education facilitator. She works with organisations such as the National Museum Scotland and Historic Scotland, Edinburgh Castle interpreting different themes and events through art and design.
This weekend as part of Doors Open Day, Edinburgh World Heritage employed her to do some art activities to celebrate the re-opening of Nelson’s Column on Calton Hill. One of her activities was a 10m by 10m ‘mandala’ in the shape of a sailor’s compass. Using rice, mung beans and red lentils the general public helped create this beautiful picture. We went along for a look and ended up getting involved. Pouring the grains and gently smoothing them out in the autumnal sunshine was such a peaceful way to spend an afternoon, no wonder ‘sand-mandalas’ are part of meditation practices. When it was finished it looked absolutely amazing from the top of Nelson’s Column.
Eco Jewellery - reused V upcycled
Finding new uses for things which are broken, out of date or just no longer needed can be difficult but artists and designers are at the forefront of addressing this issue. They are using their creativity, imagination and hard earned skills and techniques and taking the concept of reusing into a whole new dimension.
There are few different words used to describe this process, the most popular ones being: reusing, upcycling and re-design. We’re still a fan of calling it ‘reusing’ as it makes it clear to customers and as there is so much green wash around at the moment that we want to be as clear as possible about the eco and ethical aspects of our products and company.
The reason for all this? We’ve just started to stock new eco jewellery from Kate Hamilton-Hunter, who reuses biscuit, sweetie and tobacco tins in her designs. What a clever idea and what beautiful necklaces and earrings she makes.
Check out the full collection here at juliannagrove.com
British Jewellery - a wish list
I have been hanging out in York this summer and have found the temptation of all the beautiful independent shops sometimes too much to bare. One of my favourites has to be the Pyramid Gallery on Stonegate. It is just chock-a-block with amazing British artists and jewellery makers, I’ve been writing my wish list. If you are ever in the neighbourhood do pop into this amazing treasure trove.
