Introduction written by Greg Lobb:
A young girl walks along a beach, shorelines void of human development, at her feet, a glimmer of purple, an amethyst. This could be the point that altered the future of a young Jenny-Lyn Fife, however, she claims otherwise. The influences of nature are evident within her practice, gentle curves calmly caress one another, delicate textures forged into materials that seem structurally unlikely.
Jenny-Lyn Fife, a metalsmith, creates organically inspired, captivating jewellery in her home studio in Saskatoon. When she’s not fashioning metal into tiny works of art, she prefers to bask in the outdoors. Her items can be discovered at the Saskatchewan Craft Council Boutique as well as Winnipeg Art Gallery’s shop.
Interview with Jenny-Lyn Fife
Jenny-Lyn Fife Art Jewellery
Website: jennylynfife.com
Instagram: @jenny.lyn.fife
What kind of artwork do you create?
I’m an Art Jeweller designing and making pieces by hand, blending natural and architectural elements. Working with precious metals, I incorporate gemstones, enamel and textile components. I craft high quality jewellery in small batch, limited collections and enjoy the inventiveness of making one-of-a-kind statement and commission pieces. I aim to inspire the curiosity of nature enthusiasts and contemporary collectors to look closer at the details – the forms, the lines, the contrasts between textures and surfaces that contribute to a dynamic piece. Art and craft enthusiasts will be captivated by the craftsmanship imbued in my unique handmade work, uniting flair with classic elegance.
What first drew you to your medium?
I’ve always been artistically creative. Growing up, I explored various media – drawing, painting, clay, printmaking, friendship bracelets, beading, embroidery, etc. I would collect, sketch and take pictures of things like rocks, leaves and pinecones to use as inspiration. I enjoy the process of translating what I see through my hands to capture ideas in different materials and new techniques.
After attending a visual arts program through high school, I chose to pursue a creative field. I had been accepted into a jewellery program, but opted for ceramics and textiles. When completing my textiles degree, I jumped at the opportunity to try some jewellery and metalsmithing classes. I was hooked! Fascinated by the tools and techniques used to design and move metal into forms – not to mention the thrilling aspects of soldering – I felt like I had found my medium. I like the precision involved, as well as the challenge of incorporating other materials into my work. Stemming from my ever-growing rock collection since I was a kid, I was also drawn by the opportunity to use gemstones.
Where did you learn your craft?
Graduating from Fabrics in the Crafts and Design Program at Sheridan College in 2008, I continued my studies at NSCAD University. I completed a BFA, Major in Textiles and concentration in Jewellery and Metalsmithing in 2011. Afterward, I worked for a silversmith in Ontario for a year and then apprenticed for a goldsmith for a couple of years in Saskatchewan. During this time, I also taught metalsmithing to 7-15 year olds, for five summers at a camp in Maine. This was such a rewarding experience – I learned a lot in introducing others to this craft – wishing to share my enthusiasm. I began Jenny-Lyn Fife Art Jewellery in 2015. I continue to learn as I experiment and introduce new ideas and techniques into my own studio practice in Saskatoon.
What is the inspiration behind your work?
My work finds a harmony between living organisms and architectural elements. I draw inspiration from my excursions into the wilderness, taking an intimate look at the naturally occurring patterns, colours and forms found outdoors. I make abstract interpretations of my observations – progressing from sketches into paper, wax or metal models that allow me to transcribe my thoughts into three-dimensional forms. I enjoy creating visually rich, tactile surfaces. Sometimes I draw upon my textile background to utilize threads and fabrics to compliment the metal forms, while other times, I use vitreous enamel on the metal, allowing me to incorporate colour and texture. My collections carry elements from wild environments into everyday wear.
What do you hope people will gain from interacting with your work?
I find fulfilment in the inspiration and craftsmanship instilled in each handmade piece. I hope my work sparks peoples’ imaginations and stimulates recollections of their own wanderings in the natural world. Taking a closer look at the subtle textures, patterns and forms that can go unnoticed in nature, I aim to captivate as I merge organic elements with contemporary twists. I aspire to transcribe my observations and evoke the intangible – infusing details and sensations of a time and place into creative wearable art. Whether art and craft enthusiasts are looking to adorn themselves with unique, elegant jewellery or are searching for meaningful gifts, my high quality pieces can be enjoyed for their artistry and become treasured heirlooms.