Artist Biograpgy
Art and creativity have always been central to my life. Coming from a family of artists, both making and appreciating art have felt instinctive from an early age. Although my academic background is in science and my professional career has included senior management roles within the science and health sectors, creativity has remained a constant thread throughout my journey. I continue to develop new skills and explore different mediums, using art and design as a way to stay grounded.
I am largely self-taught, though I have developed my practice through silversmithing workshops with artist Richard F Burns, as well as a range of craft workshops across West Sussex. I am currently studying an online Graphic Design course to further expand my skills.
Acrylic on canvas
Current Practice
I help lead the Design & Technology and Art Department at a thriving all-through state school. Alongside this, I design, create, and sell my own distinctive silver jewellery, which is available at local markets,through the Porta Boutique in Brighton, and the Alamshouse Arcade, Chichester. I also deliver workshops and am currently looking to expand this aspect of my practice. I’m always working on a side project, exploring disciplines ranging from textiles and ceramics to sketching and oil painting.
Silver clay
Teaching
I’ve worked extensively with senior school students of all abilities, both in groups and one-to-one, helping them develop key skills across KS3 and KS4 Design & Technology and Art. I’ve also taught A-level modules, including metal clay, and supported students in taking their ideas beyond the classroom into real-world contexts—considering factors like cost, pricing, and health and safety.
Alongside this, I’ve delivered training for Design & Technology staff, covering practical skills such as metal clay, textiles, basic silversmithing, and CAD/CAM with 3D printers and laser cutters, as well as the health and safety and risk assessment requirements for each area.
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
Ceramic tile
Quilting / applique
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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Pretty Scruffy, Chichester. Winter exhibition 2014.
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Collaborations with other local artists to take part in the Chichester Art trail.
Achievements and Testimonials
Recognitions
First Prize, Photography Competition, Muswell Hill Journal 2006
First Prize, craft category, South of England show 2014
Featured in Jewellery Making Magazine February 2012.
Featured in the Folksy gift guides on numerous accsaions.
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
"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."
"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"
