Trail of Beetles
Trail of beetles collection is made from ceramic and copper. 35 beetles made from modelling clay are each hand-built and painted with stains and earthenware glazes. Completed with copper antenna and legs. This collection is a part of my degree show work of which I made a fictional narrative - a 3D collection that brings part of the story to life.
Ceramics gave me a rest bite from jewellery, it gave me a new freedom within making. From the rigid form of metal it allowed me to get messy and connect with the material in a more sensuous way. I love how clay can take almost any form and taught be alot about timing and patience.
Over 35 beetle forms were made within a short 2 week time frame, this project really helped me realise how effecient I can be with my time.
Cooper wire was heated and formed into these little 'feelers'. I made over 250 which I hammered flat to create flat feet that I later attached to the ceramic beetle bodies.
Photographs from the Natural History Museum in London gave me a rich catalog of beetle species and their forms. I particually love the Goliath beetle, rich in texture, pattern and in general, an interesting shape that embodies the stereotype of a 'beetle'.
My favourite! I called him Pablo, no good reason, just like the name. My first goliath beetle, the pattern was painted on with ceramic stain and repaired with 'green gloss' earthenware glaze. His leg broke off in the bisque firing and thankfully his legs melted back on with the glaze operation. Completed with Copper antenna and legs.
Close up of my 'jewelled beetle' - Pun intended. 5 beetles of 35 included a embellishment of real Swarovski crystals.