Catherine Large
I am a contemporary jeweller, metalsmith and educator based in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. My practice encompasses jewellery, silversmithing and vitreous enamelling using precious and non-precious metals and found objects.
I combine my studio practice with teaching metalwork and vitreous enamelling in university settings and adult education. I work in a studio that is an efficient but compact space in sub-tropical Brisbane while continuing to exhibit both nationally and internationally.
My work is a contemplative process of considering materials, taking time to think about the creation of objects and using my hands and tools to bring the ideas to fruition.
Much of my recent artwork is divided into 2 areas: fine silver and enamel objects that are the result of research into the qualities of the metal I use and how far I can push it – how thin can it be and still support itself and the enamel; will the solder joints survive being in the kiln a dozen times at 820°C; and will the piece manage being handled and exhibited; and enamelling on existing objects and pre-enamelled substrates which themselves can prove complex for a variety of reasons. I particularly enjoy enamelling vessel-like forms, whether they are objects or jewellery. While I have been using enamel in my practice since I was an undergraduate student at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT), I really enjoy the challenges involved with this style of making and am currently working on new projects.
