My story
I make contemporary jewellery and sculptural objects.
This is my beautiful, solar-powered and off-grid studio on Bruny Island/Lunawuni which is just south of Hobart, on the land of the Palawa people of Lutruwita/Tasmania,
I have always loved making things. But much of my adult life has involved working with people in helping and community building roles.
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 recently at New York Contemporary Jewellery Week, 2023.
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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.
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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.
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The works I make are about place, history and belonging.
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).
I can provide a gift to yourself or a much-loved friend or family member. Custom orders are available.
Janine Combes