Kathryn Willis Jewellery & Enamling

Kathryn was introduced to enamelling by Ros Conway whilst on her jewellery degree at Middlesex University. From that day she was hooked, loving the ability to play with layers of colour in a similar way to printmaking. After graduating she was awarded the Crafts Council setting up grant in 1994 and set up a workshop in her home town of Monmouth. For many years Kathryn worked in FE running a thriving Art department. She is now concentrating on her own work and shares a workshop with Deborah Edwards, creator of the 2016 National Eisteddfod crown. Kathryn’s jewellery has been exhibited in Wales and Internationally. She is a Member of the Makers Guild in Wales, The British society of Enamellers, The Guild of Enamellers and Made in Monmouthshire.

Colour and pattern have been a constant in Kathryn’s work. Her current work investigates repetition, multiples and the textile industry of Wales. As a mother of twins the notions of multiples and repetitive action are ones she finds fascinating. Initial research undertaken at the National Wool Museum of Wales has led her to explore weaving, folding, the reverse nature of Carthen and ideas of wanting to wrap up and protect.

Kathryn transforms her ideas into wearable items and small mixed media panels. She enamels on both silver and copper using a wide range of techniques.