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I earned a Masters in Jewellery Design from New Paltz University in New York State- Who am I?

I am Vannetta Seecharran

How did you come to be a jeweller?

My education began in Fashion Design but mid-way through my Bachelors degree I changed to Jewellery design. My first day on the Jewellery course was great and I knew immediately that I had made the right decision. I enjoy the limitations and challenges that making jewellery presents, for example, when designing and making a bracelet, considerations have to be given to its comfort, how heavy it is, how well the clasps work and if it fits on the arm. For me, these limitations are exciting and encourage me to push the boundaries of what is wearable. My work is expressive and engages with the wearer.

Where did you train?

I grew up in New York City and studied jewellery design at Parsons School of Design and earned a Masters in Jewellery Design from New Paltz University in New York State. Studying in New York City was a great experience as the city was filled with interesting things to look at and to be inspired by.

Where is your studio?

My studio is based in Islington London, which is a lovely place to work. I hope to have another workshop in Hatton Garden in the near future, which I am really excited about.

What is the main inspiration for your designs?

My source of inspiration is always changing. I love living in London and I spend a lot of time walking around the city exploring the hidden corners. I enjoy looking at architecture and how the buildings contrast against each other. I also love fabrics and I spend a lot of time at the dress collection in the Victoria & Albert Museum.

Your preferred medium is?

At the moment, I prefer to work in paper which is a very versatile material that can be strong or fragile. I am currently working on a body of work in paper that can only be used once and then thrown away. I choose materials that suit the idea that I am working on. I go through periods when I only use metal whilst other times it might be plastic or fabric.

Do you have a favourite tool?

Tools are really beautiful objects and I love buying them. It is difficult to say which is my favorite one but if I had to choose, it would be my rolling mill. With it you can stretch metal, texture, make wire and many more things.

What are your future goals?

My goal is to continue making jewellery that is inspired by everyday life. I want my jewellery to be easily accessible to the masses and not so highly priced that it becomes exclusive.

Do you offer workshops and jewellery classes?

I have a jewellery school based in Islington and soon also in Hatton Garden. I offer a range of courses throughout the year. Some of the courses include, Silver Jewellery, Beaded Jewellery and Design Development. These courses are for both beginners and intermediate students. I also run a part-time Foundation Course in Art and Design at Camberwell College of Art, London and also teach Jewellery Making at Central St. Martins College of Art and Design. In September 2010 I will be offering a one year Jewellery Art and Design Course for beginners and for those who are interested in pursuing Jewellery at a higher level.

What has been your greatest achievement

My book has been one of my greatest achievements and setting up my school has been a satisfying accomplishment. I hope to expand the school and write several more books.

Where do you exhibit your work?

I generally exhibit my work at the Contemporary Applied Arts Gallery, London, although I have spent the past year writing a book on jewellery design called, The Encyclopedia of Contemporary Jewellery Techniques (published by A & C Blacks and Interweave publication).