Jeremy Leeming

Artist Profile

Artist Profile

Jeremy recieved his diploma in Craft Design at Otago School of Art in 1992. He spent 3 years learning a range of practical jewellery and design skills under the guidance of David Mcleod, Jens Hansen, Kobi Bosshard and Blair Smith. Following completion of his diploma Jeremy took up an apprenticeship working with well-known NZ contemporary jeweller/silversmith, Jens Hansen, in Nelson. Here Jeremy gained extensive experience in working with gold and silver whilst studying Jens unique blend of traditional Scandinavian and contemporary design.

Inspired by the natural environment of New Zealand and both precious and semi-precious stones combined by a simple palette of metals, Jeremy's jewellery is modern, bold and honest. Jeremy is fascinated by the enduring qualities of New Zealand Argilite, Basalt and Nephrite and more so the journey that each pebble and stone has experienced as it has found its way from the mountain to the coast.

The conceptual thinking that lies behind each creation is the predominant relationship of metal and stone and the marrying of the two. The aim is to explore the natural beauty of the stones, and to harmonically introduce shape and form, as a natural continuity of the life of the material. Jeremy describes his work as contemporary and feels strongly about creating bold, personal pieces that stand out and enjoy 'reaction'. However, one range differs from the other and for example Jeremy's fondness for silversmith techniques have resulted in a collection of highly polished raised brooches which are simple and elegant, allowing the wearer to take on the piece and adopt it to suit their personality and style.

The making process starts with the collection of materials, be it Basalt from Bank's Peninsula, or street paving cobbles from Prague and Berlin. Using techniques of lapidary Jeremy works on each piece individually, ensuring that each form is created in sympathy with the material.