PRECIOUS GEM

Jeweller Ellis Mhairi Cameron from Benderloch is studying for a Masters in London, but she is already making a name for herself with her bespoke designs.

Where did you study and what qualifications have you gained?

I studied first at Cardonald College on the Portfolio Preparation Course (NQ). From there I spent four years at Glasgow School of Art. I graduated in June 2014 with a first class honours degree in silversmithing and jewellery. I am currently studying for my Masters in jewellery at Central Saint Martins in London. I have just finished the first year of a two-year course. I have also just been awarded the vice-chancellor’s scholarship for the second time, to help fund my second year of study at Central Saint Martins.

What is the best thing about being a Scottish designer?

Scotland is a great creative hub for contemporary jewellery design, and design in general. I received a great deal of advice and support from my lecturers while studying, regarding technical skill, business sense and developing my concepts. The Silversmithing and Jewellery Department at the Glasgow School of Art is a fantastic department, which I am extremely proud to have graduated from. I was thrilled to be asked to return as an artist in residence 2014/15.

How have you developed your jewellery business since graduating?

I have been lucky to receive a lot of media coverage about my work and have my work stocked in more than 15 galleries across the UK and Europe. My customers vary; I have had my work bought by people aged 20-80, both male and female. Most customers seem to be looking for bespoke pieces of jewellery that are visually edgier than the current big brands. I tend to find that once someone has bought one piece, they usually keep buying as they like the style and want to buy work that has been carefully crafted, instead of mass produced. I have also taken my work to several design fairs in London, Germany and France, and I will be showing my Cairn Collection at the international jewellery fair at London’s Olympia this September. I am keen to balance the business side of the ELLIS MHAIRI CAMERON with the jewellery collection itself. Over the next year of my Masters course I will be developing a new collection of work in gold and precious stones, which will debut at the 2017 MA Design Show.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given about designing and making jewellery?

Mistakes are only mistakes if you don’t utilise the lesson you’ve learned. The person who is most competent at what they do is usually the one who has made the most mistakes and taken risks along the way. Be brave; fear cripples talent. Visit www.ellismhairicameron.com