<p dir="ltr">Carly said, “I found out about FORGE on Instagram, and instantly took a liking to their posts, stories and what they had to offer. Each month they have a new theme for a showcase, allowing designers and artists to apply and take part. I decided to get in contact with them to see what showcases they had coming up as I felt this would be a great opportunity to showcase my work to a wider audience. As a recent graduate of Arts University Plymouth, the Forging Futures showcase was a perfect opportunity to exhibit with FORGE, so I applied and got accepted!”</p> <p dir="ltr">“The whole showcase was a great experience and I can’t thank the organisers enough for this opportunity. It was fantastic to network, meet new people and gain confidence in myself as a designer. From the moment I applied for the showcase, I knew I would become part of a great community. The organisation and the support I received was incredible and I highly recommend taking part. I am looking forward to continuing working with them and being part of this community.”<br /></p>

<p dir="ltr">Carly also recently took part in Milano Jewellery Week, held in Milan, Italy, showcasing her jewellery in Palazzo Bovara with over 200 other designers.</p> <p dir="ltr">Carly said, “I was accepted to be part of Artistar Jewels. This project focused on contemporary jewellery and high fine jewellery, allowing independent designers to take part from around the world. Throughout the week there were lots of other shows, events, talks and exhibitions to see. It was a great experience and I’m so glad I took part. I was able to meet new people, promote my work internationally and build confidence. I learnt so much about myself as a designer and what I need to progress further with my business as a recent graduate.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Penzance-based Carly attended Truro College to study BA (Hons) Silversmithing and Jewellery before joining Arts University Plymouth in 2018 to undertake a part-time <a href="https://www.aup.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/ma-jewellery">MA Jewellery</a>. Initially trained to work with precious metals, Carly’s work has developed overtime and now focuses on using digital tools and 3D printing as part of her practice.</p> <p dir="ltr">Carly said, “Arts University Plymouth offered a Masters in Jewellery where I could develop my practice and learn new skills. I was able to try techniques and was encouraged to be open to ideas and concepts. The facilities are incredible. All the staff, tutors and technicians are extremely helpful and want you to do well. If there were any problems, they were always on hand to help. I enjoyed the teaching and had the freedom to work at my own pace, but was still encouraged to try new things and develop my ideas further.”<br /></p>

<p dir="ltr">Carly’s work is inspired by the molecular structures of crystals and minerals, translating them into mathematical formulas and geometric forms of the crystal into her designs.</p> <p dir="ltr">Carly said, “Every idea starts from a crystal. I use the molecular structure of crystals and minerals from Cornwall, to develop the design into sketches before developing them further using 3D computer software Rhino.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Creating unique, wearable and functional jewellery, each piece of jewellery is hand dyed, with the colours representing the crystal inspiring the piece. Precious metals are then incorporated, bringing together Carly’s skill sets to create aesthetically pleasing and conceptually rich designs. <br /></p>

<p dir="ltr">Carly said, “My advice to anyone thinking of getting into working with jewellery is just go for it. I started out doing an evening class and never looked back. Be open to developing your ideas, using new materials and if it doesn’t work straight away, that’s okay, don’t give up! It took me a long time to find my niche and what I really enjoyed doing. The MA at Arts University Plymouth enabled me to do this and I wouldn’t be where I am now if I hadn’t decided to take that chance.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Carly will be showcasing her work with FORGE as part of their Christmas Showcase held in London’s historic Hatton Gardens from 28 November 2023 to 12 January 2024.</p>