artists biography

JULIE BAILEY / ARTISTS STATEMENT/ Studio Jewellery

Julie Bailey is a British designer/maker producing studio jewellery under her brand name papermetal. She is also a fine art printmaker. She sells through independent galleries, on-line and made-to-order.

‘My approach to contemporary jewellery is based on a strong connection to the materials, processes and surfaces. The aesthetic derives from simplicity, economy, modesty, intimacy, and an appreciation of the integrity of natural materials and processes. In my work as a jeweller and a printmaker my relationship with both metal and paper is nuanced by such influences as eclectic as Ikebana and Piet Oudolph, as minimal as a perfectly formed as vessel and as everyday as chalky paint on a rough wall. My personal demands for perfection and finish come from a desire to continue the traditions of good craftsmanship. I create a collection of artisan jewellery with pale silver rich surfaces, embossed with handmade papers, detailed and contrasted with darker coloured metals, all within a framework of a minimal soft geometry. I am drawn to jewellery that is effortless to wear and ageless in form.’

 

Julie trained under Master Jeweller Brian Newble in her 30’s, she further studied to postgraduate level in Contemporary Fine Art and Printmaking. Her early jewellery work was shown at the National Platinum Awards and Electrum Gallery. Since returning to making full time from her studio in Lincolnshire, she now works mostly in silver, and has recently exhibited at Yorkshire Sculpture Park MADE and will be permanently on show in the gallery shop, Leeds Craft & Design Centre and other selected independent Galleries.