The Herald Sun Weekend - 12.8.2012

The Age M Magazine - 12.8.12

Tie Fighter cufflinks by David Parker

Tie Fighter cufflinks in oxidised sterling silver and cubic zirconia by David Parker 

$390

Available in-store or online

David Parker produces jewellery that embodies a uniquely modern spirit. Beautifully developed pieces range from elaborate constructions to elegantly simple designs; often concealing their underlying complexity. The Melbourne based designer brings very strong technical knowledge and innovation to his handmade, bold contemporary designs. 

His Lord Coconut range features a number of pieces that explore the more irreverent facets of David’s personality. In this collection David has incorporated inspiration from numerous areas and periods of his career. For that reason you will find musings from pop culture, history and even humour sitting along side the more recognizable aesthetics of sculptural and architectural forms.

David likes to see his work as an interpretation of art deco architecture and modern sculptural influences. He is heavily influenced by the shapes and forms of these movements. His metal work reflects the bold forms, sweeping curves and clean edges often found in both these movements. David brings a very modern aspect to his work, as he feels it's important to embrace new design and to be relevant to his own time and place.

Pistol Cufflinks by Frances Rose Jewellery

Pistol cufflinks in oxidised sterling silver by Frances Rose Jewellery
$260
Available in-store or online

'Frances Rose Jewellery' is the label of New Zealand born, Melbourne based jeweller Amy Gopperth. Since launching her label in late 2009 Amy has released two ranges of jewellery, Digging for Gold and Charming.

Inspired initially by the sartorial splendour of the Old West Digging for Gold is essentially a range designed for men, but appeals to both men and women alike. With the range encompassing daggers, horse-shoes and gold bullion to pistol, pickaxes and bullets, Amy has drawn on the gun slinging, whiskey drinking, foul mouthed (but impeccably dressed!) characters of the Old West to create each piece.

Working predominantly in the lost-wax casting method, she intricately hand-crafts each item out of wax then casts them in precious metals. Amy also believes in sustainability and sources all materials and services locally.

Peace Dove cufflinks by Vikki Kassioras

Peace Dove with Wreath cufflinks in sterling silver by Vikki Kassioras
$275
Available in-store or online

I am fascinated by classical mythology and in its ability to shed light upon the human condition. In my work I use myths to create alternative stories that the viewer can place their own experience into. My methodology of making is strongly influenced by material, informing process and often form. My intention is to link present and past through the use of material, symbols and stories referencing a shared collective understanding and incite connections on a personal level for the viewer and wearer of my work. I want to make work that invites the viewer to dream.

City Weekly - 9.8.2012

Buloke Malachite wooden ring by Australia Handcrafted Timbers

Buloke Malachite wooden ring by Australia Handcrafted Timbers
$185
Available in-store or online

Tim Murray was born in the inner suburbs of Melbourne, where, after excelling in woodwork and art in high school where I came first in the woodwork section of the Royal Melbourne show in 1968. I started Australian Handcrafted Timbers in 1994, after a redundancy, producing hand turned bowls, lidded containers, frames, carved emu eggs and the like.

My passion for the beauty of Australian timber and my relationship with timber is more than a job, it’s a passion, some say it’s an obsession. Each piece of wood is chosen for the colour and grain, with a story of mystery and indescribable beauty which carries more than just the physical traits, more than that the wood carries mysterious secrets of the earth’s deeper spiritual meaning.

I do not see cracks in timber as flaws but as part of the character of the wood, a thing of beauty and uniqueness to be accentuated with sterling silver, stone and Australian opals. These techniques have led to my own unique style of work. My jewellery offers an experience with nature, a powerful and intimate reunion with elements from the earth with their own unique beauty that graces the body with nature’s natural warmth.