Artist Biograpgy
Art and creativity are in my blood. I come from a family of artists, so making and appreciating art has always been a natural part of my life. Although my academic degree is in science and my professional career has included senior management in the science and health sectors, creativity has remained a constant thread throughout my journey. I am still learning new skills and exploring new mediums, using art and design to ground myself.
Current Practice
I currently help lead a Design and Technology and Art Department in a thriving all through state school. Alongside this I design, create and sell my own unique silver jewellery. I provide workshops from time to time and always have a side project on the go - this might involve anything from textiles and ceramics to sketching and oil painting.
Teaching
I have worked extensively with senior school students of varying abilities within a group, and on a one to one basis to teach them key skills under the KS3 and KS4 DT and Art curricula. I taught modules to A level DT students on metal clay and also on taking ideas beyond the classroom into real world industry contexts, helping them consider factors such as cost and pricing, and health and safety responsibilities.
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I have provided training to Design and Technology teaching and support staff covering various practical skills including metal clay, textiles, basic silversmithing, and CAD/CAM using 3D printers and laser cutters. This has included the health and safety regulations and risk assessment considerations around each activity.
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I have taught over 30 workshops to adults through ceramic cafes, sure start centres, the W.I. and under the staff wellbeing programme at a school. These have included:
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painting ceramic pendants
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polymer clay jewellery
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silver stacking rings
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beaded jewellery
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gemstone pendants
Exhibitions and collaborations
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Oxmarket Gallery, Chichester as part of the Midhurst Handy and Divine artists collective.
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Roots Gallery, Coventry - Highlighting the route from education into the workplace, celebrating pupils success.
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Collaborations with other local artists to take part in the Chichester Art trail.
Achievements and Testimonials
Recognitions
First Prize, craft category
South of England show 2014
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Featured in Jewellery Making Magazine April 20212.
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Featured in the Folksy gift guides on numerous accsaions.
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​Workshop Feedback
"The excited group then settled down to a pendant-making workshop with Jenny of Fat Cat Silver. With a lovely selection of beads to chose from and a few basic techniques, everyone went home with a very personal item of jewellery to treasure."
Chichester Observer write up of Chichester Regnum W.I. workshop April 2015
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"Jenny, thank you so much for a fantastic workshop on Friday. It was so lovely and really interesting, I have been proudly showing off what I made (notice how careful I was to avoid saying “my ring” there ladies!) all weekend...I’m really grateful and definitely up for more in the future."
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​"It was brilliant! Thank you so much for a fabulous opportunity and one that made me focus on something else other than work and home life! Also thank you for your patience and expertise x"
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