About me
I have always loved making things. As a child, I enjoyed constructing Lego buildings and figures, and as I got older I liked technology lessons at school. I have always been influenced by my Dad who, as a carpenter, is always constructing things, from staircases to intricate wooden bowls. I also love art and knew from a young age that I wanted to study it further. Frida Kahlo and Roy Lichtenstein drew me into the art world and have continued to be huge influences ever since.
After winning the art prize at school after my A-levels, I went to study an Art Foundation course which opened my eyes to all types of art from photography to printmaking to wearable art. It was there that I was encouraged to pursue 3D design, which in turn led me to study Designed Metalwork & Jewellery in High Wycombe. My understanding of the body and how jewellery relates to it grew during this time, as did my making skills. I learned the basics of metalsmithing, discovered pewter as an interesting material to work with, how to use resin and much more. All of this, while also learning more art history and doing life drawing too.
My Career
When I finished university I went straight to work for Diana Porter, a very talented jewellery designer/maker based in Bristol. I learnt the processes involved in making her jewellery and did this alongside working in the shop. This gave me experience in the retail side of jewellery as well as the production which was invaluable. I then went to work for Nicholas Wylde in Bath where I completed the National Association of Goldsmiths JET Gemstone course and I am now an Associate Member of the NAJ.
I have had various jobs in the jewellery trade since and some in Opticians too, but I have always continued to make my own jewellery. I began my business “Susannah Way Contemporary Jewellery” in July 2015 and have enjoyed exploring different ways of making, researching interesting subjects and creating designs from them and venturing out to craft fairs to meet my customers.
“Fiddle” Rings. Sterling Silver and Plastic, Gold Plated Silver and Rubber. 2003.
Made to be fiddled with in everyday situations of tension, concentration, nervousness and boredom. These pieces are about play, exploration, touch and movement.
Marquise Star Pendant. 9ct White & Rose Gold and Tahitian Pearl. 2007
Lace Leaf Cufflinks. Sterling Silver. 2015.
"Fossil" Pendant. 9ct Yellow Gold and Silk cord. 2019
2015-present. Susannah Way Contemporary Jewellery
Self Employed Designer/Maker
2013. Practical Diamond Grading Course
Hatton Garden, London
2005-2006. Gemstone Diploma
National Association of Goldsmiths, London (mostly correspondence)
2004-2012 Nicholas Wylde Goldsmith
2003-2004 Diana Porter Contemporary Jewellery
2000-2003. BA (hons) Designed Metalwork & Jewellery
Buckinghamshire Chilterns University College
1999-2000. Foundation Studies in Art & Design
Trowbridge College
