Who We Are
My name is Sharon and I am the founder and crafter here at Nashira Jewellery.
I am a self-employed artisan jewellery maker and designer, living on the South Coast of England with my partner, Julian, and our Dobermann Rosie. I was born in Weymouth and love living on the fabulous Jurassic Coast, where I create individual pieces in my home workshop.
I began jewellery making in 2009, experimenting with bead stringing and wirework. I soon expanded my techniques and skills to incorporate metalsmithing into my work. This gives me much greater flexibility in my designs and has opened up a whole new world of creative possibilities.
In particular it allows me to combine my love of creating jewellery with another of my hobbies…collecting sea glass.
What is Handmade Artisan Jewellery?
Handmade artisan jewellery captures the essence of creativity and craftsmanship, evoking a sense of uniqueness and individuality. Every piece tells a story, bearing the mark of the talented artisan who painstakingly molds and shapes precious materials into wearable art. From delicate necklaces adorned with intricate gemstone settings to bold statement rings with meticulous metalwork, handmade artisan jewellery transcends mass-produced designs. It celebrates the imperfections and subtle irregularities that give each piece its distinct character, making it truly one-of-a-kind. With every stroke of the hammer and twist of wire, these skilled artisans pour their passion and expertise into their creations, resulting in jewellery that not only embellishes the body but also resonates with the soul.
Artwey Member since January 2024
Artwey was formed in 2009 as a non-profit making Community Interest Company. We have a mission to create, share and promote art in our community. We do this in many ways including through our website and on social media.
On our website, members are able to upload a profile and unlimited images of their work to their personal gallery. They can also promote their own teaching, workshops, tutoring and personal exhibitions
We organise a Rolling Venues programme where members can exhibit on a rota basis in local venues such as cafes and restaurants.
We organise large group exhibitions in the Summer and Winter and always enter group exhibitions into one of the UK’s largest open studio events, Dorset Art Weeks. This years Summer Exhibition & Open Studios are being held 25th May until 9th June.
We often collaborate with other organisations to offer our members even more opportunities to share, develop and grow their confidence and practice.
We provide access to a network of local artists and opportunities that arise from shared efforts and social events
Members are able to access a discount on art supplies from local suppliers currently includes the following, we are always looking for other relevant retailers to add to this list : Frank Herrings and Sons, Art Supplies, Dorchester 10%, Island Gallery , Portland 10% [off framing only] & Bridport Arts and Crafts shop.
We provide members with the free loan of exhibition equipment such as display boards, plinths, cabinets, card carousels, browsers, lighting and hanging systems for your own use provided they are not required for an Artwey exhibition.
We communicate with each other via access to our private members group on Facebook
Collaborating with other groups, we organise a timetable of ‘en plein air’ painting days throughout the summer which are sociable, fun and a chance to share good practice
We bring opportunities for the public to take part in art events though our outreach programme, fun art days and workshops
And the list goes on!
Check out my profile on the Artwey website…
https://www.artwey.co.uk/artist/1767
The Guild of Jewellery Designers
The Guild of Jewellery Designers is a collaboration of British jewellery designers and artisans ranging from part time enthusiasts to dedicated full time professionals offering support and networking.
They are a nationwide guild for jewellers and silversmiths offering practical help and advice to their members as well as forging links within the industry, enabling them to offer the best opportunities to GoJD members.
They also provide a platform for artisans, to be able to share their expertise and knowledge of jewellery design with fellow members and at the same time enhance their professional profiles and improve the SEO on their own personal websites with backlinks.