Alison Baxter
I am enthusiastic about the creative process and how it influences all aspects of your life. I am keen to pass this enthusiasm on and inspire others to be creative. Whilst I teach a skill or process – using resin in jewellery or tatting, I see it as a means to an end – a way of expressing oneself using shape/form and colour.
What will students gain if they come on one of your courses?I introduce the basics which can then be practised after the course. What you gain from coming on this course compared to learning from a book, is an immediate response to the process. Through demonstrations you gain an understanding of how the process progresses stage to stage.
Are there any particular techniques/processes you use in your teaching?The day will consist of a series of demonstrations then individual tuition. I will bring examples of my own work for inspiration.
What inspires your own work?Landscapes and Gardens– living between the South Downs and the English Channel I am particularly influenced by the local coast and from walking in local woods. As I work at West Dean the Gardens are also inspiring – I like the walled vegetable garden and the herbaceous borders – there is always something to catch your eye. Sewing and textiles have always inspired my work – the delicacy of stitch interprets well into the scale of jewellery.
Where can students see examples of your work?My jewellery is sold through the following Galleries:
The Workshop, Lewes; Southampton Art Gallery; The Platform Gallery, Clitheroe; Samson & Cole, Whitstable.
Middlesex University BA Hons 1st Class in Jewellery.
Teaching experience:I have taught in HE, FE and Adult Education for over 15 years, devising courses and as a Course Leader
Is your work in any public or private collections?Victoria and Albert Museum
Professional groups and societies:Association of Contemporary Jewellers