what about walking and making?

I propose further experimental development of my enamelling technical knowledge and include natural found materials.

To exploit and incorporate these qualities and methods with some of my other personal interests – walking in nature, the psychology of walking and exploring nature, including its possible health benefits, liminal space, slow living, contemplative and evocative objects 

To what extent can objects evoke the similar beneficial characteristics as of those awakened when experiencing nature?

 I am very fortunate that my day begins with a meditative walk in the countryside around Sheffield and sometimes out into the Peak District. It’s my firm belief that this ritual is of fundamental benefit to my physical and mental wellbeing.

 On starting a walk, I tryto keep my mind open and instinctively follow thoughts and feelings as I experience my surroundings. This subtle approach ensures my every walk is unique, even if it is repeated regularly. In fact, the regular revisiting of routes illuminates subtle nuances in light, temperature, sound, moisture, smell, growth, animal and human traces. 

‘Nature’ is a relatively popular theme within the field of jewellery and metalwork. I will not be directly imitating nature.

 The process will be collated and recorded through photography, drawing, collecting found materials, written thoughts and emotions.

 How do I respond to these ambiguous impressions intuitively with materials and making? 

I propose the making methods to simulate the intuitive characteristics as those found in the freedom of walking in nature. 

 My previous research suggests the tangible, tactile, viscous nature of enamel may be suitable to capture the instinctive nature of these moments 

 Research into the psychology of walking and exploring nature, including the health benefits of outdoor activities like forest bathing and wild swimming.

 Evocative objects : things we think with.

"We think with the objects we love; we love the objects we think with." Sherry Turkle

Objects as emotional and intellectual companions that anchor memory, sustain relationships, and provoke new ideas

Interactive, ritualistic objects which summon feelings of wellbeing, similar to those enjoyed outside

 This naturally suggests including a new direction/challenge for me – actively engaging with the field of jewellery (I’m usually engaged with larger metalwork) – wearable, portable, companionable objects that make us think and remember

 Outcomes

A new output of work – evocative objects and jewellery.

I will continually be looking for external possibilities to share this work.