Pixel Tracking

Something Special

Date: 01-11-2022
Success Story

 

Bree Wilson

Bree Wilson’s love for nature, painting, space, poetry, animals and colour have all been pivotal to her jewellery-making style.

She says, “I try to make little works of wearable art that mean something special to people, whether it's a special animal they hold dear to their heart, a place, or even a song.”

Bree came to jewellery-making when she was looking for a creative pursuit to occupy her infrequent spare time after the birth of her second child in 2021. She has always been fascinated and excited by art and creative expression.

“As a child I would draw constantly and moved more into painting as I got older,” Bree says excitedly. “I have tried several mediums, collecting transferable skills, ultimately searching for that more hands-on kind of making that silversmithing has brought me.”

Bree’s mother used to make beaded jewellery and she initially thought she would play around with that, and wire wrapping. "Something I could potentially fit in while breastfeeding my baby,” Bree says.

“The kind of jewellery I love to wear and look at though, has always been handmade sterling silver jewellery. I wasn't excited by beading and although I'm still fascinated by wire wrapping, I wanted to make soldered jewellery.”

Bree was determined to figure out how it was done. She read voraciously, joined Facebook groups, watched YouTube videos, and poured herself into the task of understanding the processes. With the help of a few basic tools, enhanced by some generous birthday gifts, she was on her way!

Bree says, “I spent time working and practicing with copper, learning hammering techniques and annealing. I taught myself how to fuse with some Argentium silver wire I had accidentally bought, and eventually taught myself sawing and soldering.”

Bree’s first piece was a pair of fold formed, fire painted copper gum leaves. Her more recent pieces include multi layered art pieces, miniature swords and rings.

“My favourite thing is to bring a piece alive by giving it the illusion of depth and adding colour through the use of patina like Liver of Sulphur or fire painting,” Bree says passionately.

Bree would share her creations on her socials, and started having people enquire about buying her pieces. With the help of her partner she created a website and launched her business ‘Vesta Jewellery’.

When asked, why ‘Vesta’? Bree replies, “Vesta is the Goddess of the hearth and because I use fire to create and manipulate metal, it felt so appropriate. I actually have the symbol for Vesta tattooed on my wrist.”

Bree reflects, “There's something so special about being able to play with the elements, to watch the changes in the materials, as the process unfolds. I get to tell a story, share my art and give other people something special to carry with them. I feel so blessed to have found this medium.”

Connect with Bree: 
Website
Instagram
Facebook

Bree Wilson    Bree Wilson

Join Our NewsletterStay up-to-date with the latest products and get exclusive discounts straight to your inbox! Including 5% off your next order.