An exhibition of fine art jewellery by Michelle Pujol titledSpirit in Nature is currently running at the Durban University of Technology Art Gallery.

With a Fine Art Diploma, Michelle Pujol has also received a Jewellery Design Bachelor’s Degree. Her unique designs are influenced by nature’s organic forms, its meanings and influence. Falling between being sculptural display artifacts to being functional pieces of jewellery, her training background is evident through her wittily creative designs.

Suggesting a feeling of femininity and fragility, her jewellery is pristine - using silver mostly and sometimes inserting strokes of gold. They make up a botanic collection, designs sourced from the shape of vines, leaves, seedpods, flowers.

“I like to create drama by creating tension or a sense of fragility with a piece,” explains Michelle. “Dark against light, large seemingly-fragile flowers dangle precariously from a tentative wire, vigorous movement leading in to quiet space. These are some of the ways that I achieve this sense of organic authenticity.” Inspired by the work of Andy Goldsworthy, Georgia O’Keeffe, Kayo Saito and Megan Cronin, she considers the works in this collection a journey of self discovery.

Works on the exhibition are for sale and on October 2 at 18h00, an auction will be for any remaining unsold work. Further details from the Gallery Curator on 031 373 2207 or email nontobekon@dut.ac.za

Michelle Pujol's Spirit in Nature runs at the DUT Gallery until October 11.