Jewellery
As the daughter of an artist/printmaker and potter, my exposure to the arts began at a very early age. By the time I reached adulthood textiles became a focus. I spent several years working with textiles doing freehand machine embroidery, dyeing and printing, silk painting. The silk really resonated with me because of the amazing colours and I moved into glass, initially leadlighting then subsequently flameworking (approx 25 years) and then to kiln glass producing fused and slumped pieces. Having the torchworking skills allows me to create pattern elements that can be incorporated into larger glass pieces. My inspiration has always been with the minutiae of patterns and colour in the natural world, having spent several years regularly visiting the Great Barrier Reef working as a marine interpreter (tour guide), diving and reef walking. The complexity of natural patterns continues to fascinate me. Many of the beads that I make are made to order, so I do not carry a lot of stock, but you are welcome to visit (by appointment only).
Media
Lampworking/flameworked glass beads and small objects, kiln-formed glass, handmade books and journals, with lighting (glass Tiffany style and also leadlight techniques) on the drawing board.
CONTACT DETAILS
Contact Name: Kim Griffith
Address: 38 Platypus Creek Road
QLD, DulongPhone: 0754763999
Website: www.northcoastbeadmakers.com
More About Me
Kimmyg brings a deep understanding of colour, form and pattern to her glasswork, informed by a lifetime of creative endeavour ranging from couture design to fabric dyeing. She is moved and inspired by the infinite possibilities glass affords to create functional pieces rich in beauty and meaning.
Originally from the UK, Kimmyg revealed her creative flair at a young age and has spent her life exploring several mediums. In the 1970s, a favourite pastime was visiting The Bead Shop in London’s Covent Garden, where she spent hours admiring handmade beads. This early experience sparked her love of exquisite lampworked beads and led to the pursuit of her now signature art form.
For 30 years, Kimmyg has worked with glass, initially leadlighting, then creating unique glass beads strung or wired together to create bespoke jewellery, as well as kiln work, each piece a work of art in its own right. She has cemented a reputation as one of the few artisans who continue to create sophisticated handmade glass beads despite an influx of cheap machine-made imports.
A skilled artisan with a passion for creating work that reflects the world around us, she is fascinated by the elegant dance between light and colour that occurs when she crafts each of her pieces. Those familiar with Kimmyg’s work remark that her designs are instantly recognisable due to their movement and attention to detail.
Her work includes handmade glass beads, fused glass, glass jewellery, lampwork, leadlight and kiln glass homewares, including platters, plates and bowls.
Based in Dulong, Kimmyg works out of her home studio and is happy to discuss private commissions by appointment.
