Ice Filter - Installation of Jewellery and Silversmithing

Research Background This research explores Antarctic landscape through the situating of the precious jewellery and silversmithing object. The frozen terrane of Antarctica is a repository that provides a record of the developments and changes to our environment and atmosphere. The work presented reflects on the value of the research of ice since the 1960s. This has allowed prehistoric air to be analysed and remarkable findings to be drawn from this data. Ice samples are precious artefacts in their own right, for the information that they can provide at this time when the environment is increasingly under threat from artificial pollutants. Research Significance This research was presented at the newly refurbished public institution, TE URU WAITAKERE CONTEMPORARY GALLERY. "The 30th anniversary of the organisation first opening Lopdell House as an art centre, and the extraordinary journey that has led a local community organisation to become one of the most respected contemporary galleries in Aotearoa" Research Contribution Ice filter is an installation of jewellery and a wall work with over forty ceramic and vitreous enamel forms that reference the ice core samples collected and analysed in Antarctica. This work is original in its material explorations and use of southern ice porcelain, vitreous enamels and reflector beads. The work has been created at temperatures over 1000 degrees and creates a wall work that reflects on the sampling of ice through its delicate surface. This solo exhibition positions jewellery objects using advanced material research of ceramic techniques combined with industrial metal enamels and glass.