About Janine Combes - jeweller and artist
There are two sides to my arts practice - I make contemporary jewellery (earrings, necklaces, brooches and rings) as well as sculptural objects.
I work on the land of the Palawa people of Lutruwita/Tasmania, at the very southern end of Australia.
This is my beautiful, solar-powered and off-grid studio on Bruny Island/Lunawuni which is just south of Hobart.
I have always loved making things. But much of my adult life has involved working with people, first as a social worker and then as a researcher and planner of community and health services across many communities.
About fifteen years ago I decided it was time to be creative in a different way. I studied metalsmithing and spent time living on a remote lighthouse island, so I had lots of time to practice.
I began to exhibit my work, created a website and gained recognition through winning Tidal 2020 and participating in exhibitions across Australia and at New York Contemporary Jewellery Week 2023.
I've kept learning new skills with courses in Bangkok and Florence as well a residency in North Vietnam. Now I am expanding my practice through a Master of Fine Arts (Research) at the University of Tasmania, developing new techniques and working with new materials.
I love words, textures and form so these play a big role in my creations. Recently my focus has been on working with Tasmanian woods, using pieces abandoned by other hands.
The works I make are about place, history and belonging.
As an ethical jeweller I work with ethically sourced, high-quality materials, including metals (sterling silver, gold, brass, steel and aluminium) and organic materials (buffalo horn, silk, wood and paper).
My works make the small shapes of life visible, allowing us to connect with the world around us by holding these mementos close to our bodies.
I can provide a gift to yourself or a much-loved friend or family member. Custom orders are available. You can see jewellery to purchase on the SHOP tab of the home page of my website and exhibition works on LOOK.
If you want to chat about having a special gift made, please email me by going to CONTACT.
Janine Combes