It all began with melon seeds and acorn cup necklaces, inventing outfits for my paper dolls and discovering an imaginary world in which I am still quite content to spend time. I studied fashion at St Martins moving on to Central School of Art when I found I could learn to make jewellery. I have taught in various art establishments, given private lessons and run workshops for adults and children. Retired from teaching I continue to make jewellery and have recently become fascinated by the magic of automata, another form of construction, with added humour.
Email | empeiser@gmail.com
Tel | 07941 564 060
Starting a piece of work is always exciting, never knowing exactly what will emerge. I make drawings, often based around a carefully selected stone or piece of mineral, but as I work the metal it presents possibilities not apparent in the pencil line. I work to the radio, music mostly, closing my eyes to visualise the work as it progresses. My workbench and most of the tools have been with me since the beginning, I love the feel of an old pair of pliers or my trusty saw which I know will do what I ask of them. Sterling silver is my chosen metal, it is easy to shape with steels and hammers and in Fine form wraps itself cosily around stones. I use 18ct gold to decorate and enhance the silver pieces,
Finishing a piece is rather more of an issue. Sometimes a piece will wait for years for me to decide just how it should look. I believe many painters do the same. I like direct selling, it is nice to know where my pieces go. I am always thrilled to bits when I bump into someone wearing something I have made.
Zitta uses needle and thread to creates geometric designs through a variety of weaving techniques as shown in this bracelet.
Working in precious metals and stones, Lesley’s work is an organic response to the world around.
Trained as a jeweller in Hatton Garden, and still expanding her skills in rare jewellery techniques.
