Since 2017 I have been completing a Master of Fine Arts at Dunedin School of Art, Otago Polytechnic. I have a research led practice, my methodology includings acts of critical walking. I have been gathering discarded packaging from the urban environment by which I consider the globally diffuse production, distribution and consumption of material culture. I generally utilise industrial materials and processes (stainless steel, water jet cutting) to make objects that are increasingly concerned with relationships between audience and urban space.
I applied for HANDSHAKE6 for the opportunity to be exposed to amazing practitioners who can help me extend my vision for contemporary jewellery and my making practice; I enjoy being challenged and pushed in new ways and love the critical discourse that contemporary jewellery offers.
For HANDSHAKE6 I nominated Gabi Shillig (Germany) as my mentor due to her practice of spatial intervention. Gabi is Professor at Universität der Künste, Berlin, and is the co-editor of the book Artistic Interventions in Urban Space which has been a strong influence on my developing practice concerning jewellery beyond the body and the gallery.
instagram: @simon.marcus.swale Instagram:@jewelleryforfences
Simon Swale’s posts:
GATES / GATEWAYS
Summer 2021. Time to RESET. But also for some reflection… Hard to believe it is a year since we all first met together for the Handshake introductions and masterclass with Iris and Renee in Auckland. It seems both like yesterday, and a lifetime ago… It was so great to...
MAPPING
Much of my MFA work focussed on considering and exploring notions of space and place. Of finding ways to articulate spaces of the everyday that operate as thresholds and/or places of transition; where land meets water, such as ports, as well as other points of...
In memory of George Floyd and all who have suffered at the hands of systemic racism and violence
It seems to be the nature of contemporary life that history erupts upon the surface of our lives in ever more frequent waves. There seems a volatility in the fabric of society that has created tension and unease. The papered over cracks of history are being torn apart...
LOCKDOWN!!!
LOCKDOWN… What a difference a few weeks make. This is a crazy time…. Just struggling to get any perspective on life at the moment. At least we have art I suppose…. My MFA exhibition was meant to open, basically the day we went into lock down. It is still there in the...
Simon Swale’s images:
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‘Regular Chips’ Bracelet. Stainless steel and brass. 2019., 200x125x95mm
‘Jewellery for Fences’ Brass, enamel paint, acrylic and plastic. 2019, 35x90mm + acrylic label.
