November 11, 2010
jewellery designer & artist julie blyfield
Where does design end and art begin? That's a hard question to answer when it comes to the work of South Australian jewellery designer Julie Blyfield. Given that her work is in collections at London's Victoria & Albert Museum and Musee Des Arts Decoratifs in Paris, I think we have our answer. Perth's FORM is exhibiting Julie Byfield's work until January 14.
Which five words best describe you? Consistent, passionate, committed, home body, fortunate.
How did you get your career start and what path have you taken since? I trained at art school as a secondary school art teacher and that's where I gained a taste of jewellery work and was hooked. What's the best lesson you've learnt along the way? To keep going and realise there is always another day ahead.
What's your proudest career achievement? I think when my work was acquired by the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and the Musee Des Arts Decoratifs in Paris.
What's been your best decision? To work full time at my practice, after being an art teacher for many years, to focus on my work.
Who inspires you? My friend Helen Fuller as I love the way she approaches her artworks. Belgium metalsmith David Huycke as his work is truly beautiful and Lucy Sarneel for her exquisite jewellery pieces.
What are you passionate about? My garden, my work and helping out younger jewellers.
Which person, living or dead, would you most like to meet? My English grandparents whom I never met.
What dream do you still want to fulfil? I would like to visit Japan and India and see the crafts from these areas and also visit the Scandinavian countries. Likewise I would like to visit more places in the north of Australia.
What are you reading? I have just read Amsterdam by Ian McEwan.
images courtesy of julie blyfield, grant hancock and form