Research and Ideas Generation

Initial inspiration for this project came from the stunning collection of chandeliers within the National Trust Archive, which are very grand and elaborate pieces. I was attracted to their complex structures, suspending jewels and repeated lines and shapes. They are constructed mainly from glass and metal: valuable materials which have a delicacy and reflective quality yet are also robust. This could be translated into my own material choices, such as beads, metallic threads, lace, silks and sheer fabrics.  The archives glassware displays similar features on a simpler scale, with engraved patterns and elegant structures. My drawings from the collection articulate the forms observed, and the technique of combining decorative elements could be progressed into fabric samples.  

Chandelier at Dunham Massey

Archive research:

Sketchbook Drawing

Visiting the National Trust Property at Dunham Massey extended my research, enabling close-up photographs of chandeliers and multiple perspectives. It was beneficial viewing the physical objects in their original setting, alongside the interior decoration and room contents. The chandeliers glass surface glistened as light reflected strong colours from the surrounding space. I produced colour palettes using my images, focussing on areas where distinctive shades were captured within the chandelier. I compared these with colourful ceramics from the Archive, such as decorative teacups and vases, to identify striking combinations. Although I now need to consider the proportion of colour, finding a balance that works well, and try to achieve the specified shades in my work.
  

Colour Reference:

Close-up detail of Chandelier

Selecting Colour using

Vase from Archive

Taking a closer perspective revealed the multiple, angular facets within a chandelier, as shown in my geometric drawings. These precise patterns would look effective screen-printed onto fabric, and combined with embroidered motifs taken from more ornate features, for instance the spiralling metal work. Chandeliers have a graceful appearance and strong presence, an interesting combination which I could communicate through pale shades with bold accents, and clear-cut shapes printed subtly onto fabric. Paul Scott’s lecture was relevant in demonstrating how all the research and images gathered can be synthesised to create individual pieces with a modern edge.

 

Sketchbook drawings: Geometric Patterns

 I intend to create products suitable for the Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair. This professional context requires unique, hand-crafted items which will appeal to a specific customer. After exploring my original idea of wearable fashion accessories, I will focus on producing some form of neckwear, a prominent eye-catching feature that frames the face. My research has shown that fashion, costume and jewellery pieces worn around the neck are ornate and highly embellished, forming a direct connection to the overstated and intricate nature of chandeliers. The lecture by Ann-Marie Franey was useful in clarifying the expectations of a Craft Fair: directing your product to the right market is essential to success, as well as creating a good impression of your work through professional, high-quality images. Furthermore, George Wu’s business ‘Poundshop’ revealed the importance of price and how this can often impact the materials used.  

Product Research

Lilian Asterfield: 

Upcycled Fashion Ties

Michelle Lowe: 

Costume Jewellery