Preparing for FORM: Behind the Scenes
There’s a particular kind of energy that settles into the studio in the weeks leading up to an event. It’s a mix of excitement, pressure, and something quieter too: a sense of purpose. Right now, that feeling is building as I prepare for one of Cornwall’s most prestigious art events: FORM Art Fair in Falmouth, running from 15th–17th May.
FORM brings together an incredible selection of artists and makers, all carefully curated, all deeply connected to their craft. To be part of it fills me with pride and a chance to share my work in a setting that really celebrates handmade, thoughtful design.
But what does ‘preparing’ actually look like? From the outside, it might seem like it’s just about making more stock but in reality, it’s a layered process — part making, part refining, part storytelling.
Gathering from the Coast
Before I even begin at the bench, much of the preparation starts outside along the coastline that shapes my work.
I’ve been spending time along the coast, collecting textures on silver using granite. There’s also the process of casting recycled silver into ocean water. It’s something I return to again and again, drawn to its unpredictability and connection to the Atlantic. The moment molten silver meets the water, it transforms to form organic, fluid shapes that can never be exactly repeated.
These raw forms are then brought back to my home studio in Falmouth, where the slower, more detailed work begins.
Returning to the Bench
At the heart of everything is time at the bench.
In the lead-up to FORM, I’ve been refining and finishing each piece carefully. The castings guide my designs whilst still holding onto the character formed by the water.
Alongside this, I’ve been setting semi-precious and precious stones into selected pieces, adding depth and contrast to the collections. There’s something very grounding about stone setting — it requires patience, precision and a steady hand.
Nothing is rushed. Everything is carefully considered.
Preparing for a fair like FORM isn’t just about quantity. I spend time thinking carefully about what I want to bring. Which pieces feel right for this moment? What sits well together as a collection? How can I create a display that reflects not just the jewellery, but the story behind it? FORM tends to attract people who are really interested in process and provenance, which makes it the perfect place to share my work.
Building the Display
Once the making is well underway, my focus begins to shift towards presentation.
I’ve been carefully working on the layout of the stand, thinking about how to create something that is both eye-catching and true to the work itself. Height has been an important element, building layers into the display so that pieces can be seen clearly and the overall space feels dynamic rather than flat.
Blocks of wood have been prepared as display stands, some wrapped in fabric, others finished with gold leaf to echo the tones within the jewellery. Each one has been considered not just as a practical support, but as part of the overall visual story.
Alongside this, I’ve been designing and printing signs, leaflets, and business cards; small but important details that help communicate the work and guide people through the collection. Price displays have been created, balancing clarity with a clean, cohesive look. It’s a quiet design process, but one that makes a real difference to how the stand feels as a whole.
The Final Stages
As the event approaches, everything begins to come together.
Jewellery has returned from being hallmarked at the Birmingham Assay Office, each piece now carrying that official mark of quality materials.
There’s also the practical side of preparation. Payment systems have been set up and tested, making sure everything runs smoothly over the weekend. Gift bags have been stamped ready for each purchase, a small finishing touch that feels considered and personal.
Every piece is checked, polished, and packed. It’s a moment of quiet reflection as weeks of work are gathered together, ready to be shared.
Social Media posts are created and the website is updated.
The Emotional Side of Preparing
There’s always a more personal layer to this process too.
Preparing for a fair like FORM brings a mix of anticipation and vulnerability. The work is deeply personal and placing it into a public setting always carries that sense of exposure. A great deal of time and emotional energy has been invested in the process.
But, alongside that is a strong feeling of connection. Events like this bring together a community of makers and people who truly value handmade work.
Meeting people in person is one of the most rewarding parts — hearing what draws them to a piece, sharing the story behind it, and seeing that moment of connection when something resonates.
Looking Ahead to the Weekend
As the date gets closer, the pace in the studio inevitably picks up.
There are always last-minute decisions — one more pair of earrings, one final adjustment to the display, one last check before everything is packed away…
Find me in the Garden Room, Princess Pavilions, Falmouth.
Friday 15th May | 2-8pm
Saturday 16th May | 10-5pm
Sunday 17th May | 10-4pm
It’s always a pleasure to meet people who share a love for the coast and for thoughtfully made objects.
A Final Thought
Every piece of jewellery carries a story not just of where it came from, but of how it was made, and why.
Preparing for FORM is about bringing all of those stories together. The coastline, the materials, the hours at the bench, the careful decisions behind both the jewellery and the display — all of it becomes part of what you see.
And then, over the course of a weekend, those pieces begin new stories of their own.
I’m really looking forward to sharing them with you.