Get To Know… Elly Pepper
A deep dive into all things ‘arts and ents’.
Words Indigo James
Image Morgan Sette
Home of Nativis founder Elly Pepper creates magic with her craft, combining shapes, colour and texture inspired by nature. She’s led by a passion for learning new techniques, such as carving wax and silversmithing, whilst also embracing the beauty of imperfection and chaos. Returning to the bench as a new mother, Elly is keen to busy her hands (and mind) with metal and wax. Elly even bestows her knowledge regularly, hosting workshops for those wanting to learn how to make their very own rings.
Tell us about your practice.
I design and handcraft jewellery from solid recycled metals and responsibly sourced stones. I switch between classic silversmithing, which involves flame and files and solder, and carving wax to cast into metal, using the lost wax method.
What inspires your work?
Nature, always! Mother Nature does it best: the shapes, colours, patterns. I love to find the stone first and let it inspire the piece it will live in. Sometimes there are lots of elements to a piece, but other times the stone does all the talking.
What is your favourite piece of jewellery you’ve made?
I have a soft spot for creating engagement rings, especially for friends. However, I made a solid gold bracelet for an exhibition a couple years back that is truly special. I carved a sun-like shape from wax and had it cast in solid gold, set a dozen teeny warm-toned sapphires all around, then handcrafted a solid gold chunky chain. It’s an eye-catcher for sure!
What’s your earliest memory of making art?
I’ve always loved beading. I remember being little and crafting with string and beads and whatever else I could get my hands on. The love is still there and you’ll find beads in my designs today.
What are you most excited about working on right now?
After the arrival of my baby girl six months ago, I’m really just excited about the whole idea of being back at my bench and creating. It’s a welcome break for my brain to switch off and let my hands get busy with either metal or wax. I’ve recently returned to hosting workshops again too, so it’s all a bit exciting, really!
What is a usual day in the studio like for you?
It’s a lot different now, being a mum. But studio time can be anything from client consultations or drawing to processing workshop pieces, sourcing, creating content and admin. There are a lot of hats to wear as a solo business owner!
What helps you get into the creative zone?
I either need a good show to very partially listen to, or some loud music over headphones. I also like to start on a reasonably tidy bench – it doesn’t stay that way for long, but it’s nice while it lasts.
Who are your three top artists right now?
I will always love Seb Brown for jewels – [they are] beautifully simple and well executed designs. I’m a long-time fan of Hilary Green, she makes such beautiful ceramic and candle wax pieces. Finn O’Sullivan (AKA Lawn Bowls) does such great glasswork. It’s super fun and colourful and unserious.
Keep up to date with everything Elly Pepper is working on via @nativis.jewellery.
