/// INTRODUCTION POST / WHO WHAT WHY ///
I’m Suzanne Seed, a professional silversmith and jeweller. Silversmiths make items not jewellery, although some (like me) make jewellery too. I’ve always been creative but once I started with silver I knew it was “my thing”.
After years of making jewellery as a hobby I studied Silversmithing, Goldsmithing and Jewellery for three years at BA Level. I followed that with a Masters in Creative Entrepreneurship. Since then I’ve attended many skills development courses and masterclasses, with many more on the horizon.
Originally just making jewellery, once I got to uni I naturally progressed into silversmithing. I’ll be honest, I had no idea it existed until then. Further proof my decision to go to uni was the best decision.
My aesthetic is bold clean lines, texture, a pleasure to look at, touch and use, and a timeless design. I love all things mid century, minimal, modernist, but my all time favourite is 20th Century Industrial buildings. Watertowers, brutalist, concrete and texture all float my boat.
I have my own little studio and it’s taken me years since graduating to fund the many tools I need to create the work I want to create. It’s been a long hard slog but I’m getting there. I’m incredibly proud of how much I’ve achieved through my hard work.
I share my passion for all things metal by teaching others, jewellery and silversmithing at all levels. I learn so much from teaching, and there is nothing as rewarding as seeing the look of pride on someone’s face when they look at their finished piece which they doubted they could ever achieve. Many of my students now have their own businesses selling silver jewellery which is great.
I’m currently working on The Water Tower Works Project which I’m very happy to say has been funded via a Develop Your Creative Practise grant from the Arts Council England . This means I have the luxury of dedicated and consistent time (30 hours a month) for my creative work, giving it the attention it needs rather than being pulled away to earn money. It feels like the first time I’ve had the opportunity to give my practice the chance it deserves. I’ve had fantastic support and encouragement with this project which at times has been overwhelming (in a very good way!).
I feel like I’m achieving everything I set out to achieve. I’d like a bit more income security but business wise I’m working full time as a silversmith and jeweller, making and teaching. When I left uni in 2016/2017 that was my dream and it’s amazing that I am able to say I’ve achieved it. Now to get better and better!
