Lydia is an artist and maker; predominantly working in metal, with a special interest in chasing and repoussé.
Chasing and repoussé is a technique found worldwide throughout history and was used in the making of the famous Battersea shield. It can also be seen in stunning array on many metal artefacts excavated from Late Bronze Age Hallstatt culture archaeological sites.
The main reason Lydia’s artistic curiosity is drawn to this technique, is the power it holds to convey motifs, symbols and themes from bygone times; as well as its potential to be a potent storytelling tool in the modern day. Chasing and repoussé is time-consuming skilled work. Its continuation in an age of consumerism and high waste, low value production is a small act of rebellion in favour of a slower, more thoughtful way of life.
Fascinated by folktales, forms in nature and often lost in a vivid world of her own imaginings, Lydia’s work conjures a sense of the stranger aspects of our lived experience; and asks us to peer a little closer at the seemingly mundane… to seek out the forgotten magic all around us.
Lydia studied at Brighton Metropolitan College, where she achieved a distinction in her Level 3 Art and Design Foundation Diploma. While studying there, she was ushered into metalworking by a very supportive tutor. Here, the sparks of interest were unleashed and soon her creative flame roared into an unshakable obsession that burns hot, smouldering away in her soul to this day.
Since her studies, Lydia has worked as an assistant to skilled blacksmith Oliver Russell and has now embarked on her own creative expedition.
Lydia has taught a range of workshops at Makers Barn and Butser Ancient Farm. She has also sold and exhibited work at Makers Barn, Medicine Festival, the Floral Fringe Fair and Artisan at the Barn. Her work has also been featured in House and Garden Magazine.
Lydia commits her practice to making wearable stories, charms for the home and talismans of the otherworld.
