Hazel Sutton

I have always worked by either making, selling, collecting or buying things… whether as a prop buyer for television, an upholsterer in my own workshop, or dealing with retro and vintage design in my own shop.

I first started making jewellery after I had studied for several years at Queens Road College of Art at evening classes. I thought it was about time that I started making my own things. Much of my inspiration comes from religious imagery; I love Mexican milagros, ex votos, talismans and anything associated with Catholicism, saints, angels, devils, skulls and wings – don’t ask me why – I just do.

So when I started to design I turned to these symbols; sacred hearts, cherubs and angels. I wanted to capture the passion and energy of the old symbolism in my jewellery. I like the idea that a simple piece can be used as adornment but also embodies a memory, a lover’s pledge, a wish for happiness and hope for the future.

I have also started to incorporate other elements into my jewellery; circus animals, daft dogs and crafty cats, I really appreciate the humour and fun we gain from our pets so making animals in quirky poses had became a speciality in my latest work.

I understand how and why people wear jewellery, not just how to design it. So I sell a variety of handsome silver chains that look good on their own but even better with one or more of my hand made talismans which I also make into earrings.

I work mostly in silver adding semi precious stones such as turquoise, amber, jade fresh water pearls and a selection of Tibetan findings.

My work is personal, wearable, and bought by people as gifts for themselves and the people they love.