I create artisan glass beads, using glass rods that I melt in the flame of a torch.

I love the fact that melting glass cannot be rushed, because it forces me to slow down, and focus on the moment. It also satisfies the mad scientist in me as I discover new colour reactions and learn to push the glass to its limits. I am inspired by a whole host of colours and shapes from the world around me, and I am always planning how I can capture these within a glassy work of art. The fact that my relationship with glass will always have the potential to develop to another level is what enthrals me most. I am proud to be playing a part in keeping this ancient craft alive in the 21st century.

I use a variety of techniques and materials in my beads, often incorporating fine silver. I use mainly Italian glass, which is manufactured on the island of Murano. Much of the glass I use is rich in silver which enables me to create fabulous colour effects, and even to produce metallic shimmers.

My jewellery designs make a simple statement and their intention is to showcase the beads. I find enormous satisfaction in being able to produce an entire piece of jewellery from raw ingredients. I have recently begun to make silver charms and other silver components to incorporate within my jewellery designs, and this has given me the ability to make the exact item to compliment my glass beads. This has been one of my exciting projects for 2008.