Ailish Roughan

Jewellery has the ability to transform. Not only in the making process from concept to design, metal to object, but how something so small, intimately and intricately made, becomes a part of the larger whole of the body. Each piece created becomes an outward expression of the self, from a quirky sense of humour to the inner ponderings of the soul! My influences stem from childhood memories of growing up in the lush wilderness of the south island west coast of New Zealand, and my fascination with the colourful magic of fantasy and the dark mystery of fairytales. Since graduating in sculpture from Elam school of fine arts in Auckland New Zealand, I have pursued jewellery studies in Auckland, Christchurch and Paris, France. Most recently I have been studying Fashion design in Christchurch. I have exhibited my work in various venues in New Zealand. My time overseas has made me value New Zealand even more. As a registered Eco Artist a percentage of sales of my work contribute directly to a NZ wildlife conservation fund.