Skia takes its name from the Greek word for shadow: the shade formed through the interception of light. Conceived from a performance piece where I dress up as a shadow puppet that takes on a life and will of her own, Skia exist somewhere between the physical and illusion.

From the debate in Plato’s Allegory of the Cave about the physicality of ones shadow, and the enduring presence of shadows in art, this sculptural work explores the relationship between light, movement and the human desire to animate the inanimate. Drawing on the visual language of kinetic toys, marionettes and wearable sculpture, the piece brings together my parallel practices in jewellery and Fine Art, allowing each discipline to inform and transform the other.

Developed over the course of a year, Skia takes the form of a fully functioning marionette, intricately crafted in solid silver and suspended from a 18kt gold chain to be worn as a necklace. Both as and interactive sculpture and body adornment, it occupies a space between object and character, inviting the wearer to bring the figure to life through movement. A statement piece with a theatrical presence, Skia challenges the boundaries between jewellery, sculpture and performance.

Exhibited at Goldsmiths’ Fair in 2021 and 2022, the piece was also selected for Vanity Fair and Vogue editors’ top picks at Goldsmiths’ Fair 2021.

Materials: Sterling silver marionette with a choice of sterling silver, or 18ct gold chain, as pictured.

Made to order: Due to the intricate, time-intensive nature of its construction, each Skia necklace is individually made to order. The anticipated making time is approximately 3–6 months, although this may vary depending on the current waiting list. Each piece is made in the order in which it is purchased, and you will be kept informed throughout the making process.

Dimensions

• Figure: 95 mm in length

• Overall length: 285 mm, including chain and figure

• Maximum width: 40 mm, measured across the clasp