In conversation with: Sarah Levy

When the Riverhouse in Walton asked Sarah if she knew anyone who could teach jewellery making, she jumped at the chance to do the job herself.

Why did you choose to make silver jewellery?

Siver is a lovely material– it’s extremely malleable and versatile so great to work with. It’s also very forgiving so any mistakes are usually easy to recover.

Have you always worked with silver?

I dabbled a little while doing a degree in 3D design at Farnham College in 1988 but at the time I was more interested in working with iron and steel.

So, what did you make?

I was really drawn to functionality with an artistic twist. For my degree I made an iron gate. It was a very abstract design but looked quite delicate while being practical. On a smaller scale I forged a herb knife with a curved blade and handle which I still use today.

Did you stick with heavy metal on leaving college?

On graduating I moved to Queensland in Australia where I got a job working for a talented blacksmith. He created really contemporary pieces, pushing the boundaries on tradition which was so exciting. I worked on everything from big architectural pieces to items of furniture.

That sounds like hard work

Yes it was, but he had big power hammers to forge with and large electric welders. I really like the idea being active and healthy while earning a living, which I certainly was while blacksmithing.

When did you switch to silver?

On my return to the UK I shared a studio making small pieces of furniture. But when the studio was sold, I moved with my family to Molesey and volunteered in the Riverhouse art gallery. I was then asked to teach jewellery making in the Barn.

What was that like?

I started with just four students so I could be very hands on. I ’m always amazed at the variety of pieces they produce. Rings, pendants and earrings are the most popular

Do they use a variety of metals?

Silver is the most popular but some students use antique silver spoons or napkin rings to turn into bracelets or pendants. Copper and brass are also ideal but gold is expensive. They also use decorative jewels from flat backed Cabochon gemstones, which are the easiest to work with, to sea glass and glass beads.

Is silver easy to work with?

Silver is very versatile and there ae so many different techniques to create pieces in countless styles. Soldering with a torch can be tricky but students soon get the hang of it.

You must really enjoy teaching?

I love it. Helping people to make something beautiful and seeing their delight when it’s finished is incredibly satisfying.

Janet Donin