Shannon Cornish – Artisan Jeweller
I had an interest in making jewellery even as a young child – I made my first handmade silver ring in 2000 – and I’ve been hooked ever since!
I searched for an apprenticeship for 4 years before securing one with Matthew Hale in Mount Barker. I had already worked with him part time and attended private classes with him for 4 years.
Before my apprenticeship I had experienced working in a factory for machine-made and mass-produced jewellery and also studied bookkeeping as I felt I would end up working in small business.
After starting my apprenticeship I then worked with Matthew Hale for around 6 years before opening my own shopfront with onsite workshop in August 2010.
Running my own business has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever done and I feel like everyday is a new learning curve. Making things is my passion and its not unusual for me to wake up in the night and have to turn on the light to scribble down my latest idea.
The year that my sterling silver magnolia sculpture was displayed at the South Australian Museum as part of the Waterhouse Natural Art History Prize exhibition was such an inspiring moment. My plans for the future include exploring more sculptural art pieces and also pushing my technical skills and challenging myself to learn more in new areas.
Joshua Lamborn – Jeweller & Silversmith
I have a keen interest in a variety of jewellery making and silversmithing techniques. Forming and shaping, engraving and texture are my current passion, and this shows in the designs I have been adding to the collection of jewellery made under my own name.
I am the main teacher in the jewellery classes and people tell me that my calm, relaxed and patient teaching style is effective.
When people talk to me about anything metal work (or leather, or glass, or anything really) the passion I have for creating things and trying new skills is evident.
I aim to be constantly learning new things and practicing and perfecting my skills. I’m a qualified jeweller, but many of my skills come from dedication, practice and persistence in learning new things and exploring jewellery making techniques.
Skye McQuillen – Beadmaker & Designer
My beadmaking journey began in 2008, when I purchased a few glass beads at a local craft market and became determined to learn how to make these beautiful tactile pieces myself. After a bead making class and much experimentation, I learned the unique properties of soft glass whilst at the same time discovering that there are infinite design possibilities when creating glass beads.
A background in design and love of learning new processes then led me to seek some simple silver jewellery making skills. I wanted to learn how to create quality jewellery so that my beads could be worn and enjoyed in a comfortable and complimentary setting.
My bead designs are eclectic, from colourful to monochrome, intricate to simple, and anything in between. When I’m designing a piece of jewellery my aim is to make the beads the focus of the design; the silver providing the backdrop. It is very important to me that each bead is well made and designed into a piece of jewellery that it’s owner will love and enjoy for a long time.