Frankston South, Melbourne

classes: Silversmithing • Jewellery Making

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Women-owned

Kathy grew up in a very creative family. Her parents were potters and had a large workshop in the backyard. They always encouraged her to explore different arts and crafts. When Kathy was around 12 years old, her dad bought her a copper enamelling set. This was her first experience working with metals. She spent hours playing around, making jewellery in the corner of their pottery workshop.

Kathy went on to study Art Education at University, majoring in Jewellery Design and Silversmithing. She was fortunate to have the most patient and inspirational Silver Smithing teacher. It took her a lot of practice to really understand the process, but once she did, she was hooked.

After finishing her studies she moved to the UK where she worked in a school teaching primary aged children and coordinating the school’s Art program. During that time she took part in a workplace exchange program at the Tate Gallery in London.

Later, she moved back to Australia and studied a Master of Education - Gifted and Inclusive Education. She spent many years teaching support, extension, and creative development programs in schools whilst making jewellery on the side. Then at the end of 2017, she took a leap of faith, resigned from her teaching job and began making jewellery full time.

Kathy recently combined her two passions and now teaches jewellery classes at a local TAFE as well as private classes. She teaches traditional silversmithing, wax carving, gem setting, and metal clay.

Kathy describes creating handmade jewellery as a continuous journey in experimentation, problem solving, reflection, regrouping, and up-skilling. She aims to provide a fun, personalised experience where each student leaves feeling confident in their new skills.

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