Megan Vischer
This collection of works is born from a love of a small enclosed beach on the East Coast of Scotland, and a sketchbook. An abstract approach is taken through an indirect translation of sketches onto metal. As opposed to a photographic mimic of nature, these pieces are the result of a three dimensional response to expressive drawings of the area made from tangible found objects, visual sources, personal experience and memory of the area. A desire to capture the feeling of being present on this beach at dusk was the inspiration for the drawings which then came together to fabricate this finished collection. Through metal forming and texturing, this series of work represents small fragments of the tangible and intangible beauty found within the bay. The silver pieces display an organic and natural take on visual details of this coastal area. Oxidisation of the silver is utilised to accentuate an image of pattern and texture, and the technique of engraving is used to create striking, yet subtle fractures of light in an attempt to recreate the feeling of reflection on the surface of the sea. Chasing and Repoussé are also implemented to create three dimensional form, bringing life and depth to the work.
Sand Drift Series
This necklace and earrings set is loosely inspired by a drawing from my sketchbook that was made in relation to the patterns in sand. Both are made from recycled silver that has been engraved, oxidised and rubbed back to reveal a contrast in the engraved lines, thus emulating drifts of sand that form in the breeze.
Wood Flow Series
This set made up of a necklace and ring was the initial inspiration that sparked my whole collection. Upon the completion of my wood flow necklace I realised the true source of my interests and inspiration. The forms within nature and future ways I would express them within my jewellery all started with this work. The combination of a beautifully unique piece of driftwood and formed silver pieces intended to mimic the organic surface of driftwood come together to create a set of two one off statement pieces, highlighting and complimenting the beauty of found beach wood.
Ebb and Flow Series
This cuff and ring set are inspired by the ebb and flow of the tide. They imitate the uneven surface the water gives when persuaded by a gentle breeze. The ring could also be seen as seaweed or lichen – however the viewer and wearer would like to interpret it, that is also a joy in my pieces. They came from my personal inspirations, but people are free to see them as they would like.
Lichen Series
This earring and ring set was informed by a little drawing in my sketchbook. This informed the shapes I used and the patination was inspired by the lichen found on rocks around the bay where I gathered my inspiration, hence their given name. I love how the colours are different each time they are fired therefor resulting in pieces that cannot be replicated exactly the same way.
Cluster Light Series
This series featuring a bracelet and a matching ring was made using the technique of engraving to beautifully capture light and could mimic a cluster of barnacles and also the light capturing the surface of the ocean. The inspiration for these piece came not from one direct thing, but rather a slow progression of thinking through visual digestion of many things and sketch booking resulting in these two carefully constructed pieces.
Sketchbook
Here you’ll see the main inspiration behind my work, a series of pages from my sketchbook. These drawings were a way for me to express my own personal memories and responses to North Berwick beach, both its visuals and its atmosphere. Some pieces were a more direct response to the sketches, while others were more based off elements or small parts of the sketches.
