Meet the Maker - Caitlin Hegney

About you?

I am a Scottish artist designer maker and am currently undertaking a year as Artist in Residence at The Glasgow School of Art. I create contemporary wearables and graduated from The Glasgow School of Art with First Class Honours in 2018. I visualise myself as a collector and researcher. I balance contemporary and historical research with influences of the everyday.

What first attracted you to working with Jewellery?

Jewellery is a medium which allows me to combine my fascinations surrounding heritage, anthropology and materiality. The discipline allows me to see the creative process from beginning to end; to research, experiment, express and craft. I was very keen to pursue an ancient craft, to forge its relevance in contemporary society.

What are your plans for the future?

I feel like I am just beginning to define my area of interest and research. I intend to keep making, being able to reach out to wearers, collectors and galleries through my work. I also hope to take the research element of my practice to a further level. I am fascinated by the role of ancient craft in modern culture. I am keen to find or develop an outlet where these precious skills can be energising and engaging for contemporary society.

What advice would you give someone who is trying to become a jewellery designer?

Approach your interests with the curiosity of a child and use your jewellery as the medium to express and connect.

Your favourite quote or words of wisdom?

It has to be “knowledge speaks but wisdom listens” from Jimi Hendrix. To me, this quote applies to all aspects of life but also sums up the ethos of my creative thinking; the importance of observation, curiosity in application to a craft.

The quote references my beliefs that makers are researchers, inquisitive observers. It also speaks of the importance of inheriting crafts skills. Demonstrating respect without being overly reverent of the past; subverting and to challenge conventions for ancient crafts to permeate contemporary society.