Jill Leventon
Enameller

Tell me a little about yourself and your art?

I trained as a mathematician and geologist, which probably accounts for my preoccupation with structure, both man made and natural. I now work full time in my studio making pictures, bowls and 3D items. Enamelling has a multitude of techniques, and I like to utilise several of them in my work. I enjoy finding new ways of doing things. I develop my work by trial and error, finding out what works and what doesn’t as I progress. I particularly enjoy firing enamels at temperatures far higher than their normal range, which causes the enamels to react with each other and with the copper. This can yield unusual and unexpected colours and textures, meaning that all those pieces are unique.

 

How did you first get into your chosen art?

Through a short series of classes run by The Guild of Enamellers in Shrewsbury

 

Where do you feel the inspiration to create your art comes from?

Structure, both man made and natural.

 

The last year has been especially challenging for so many of us. How have you managed, both personally and creatively?

I have found it very difficult. The constant bad news in the media has been very draining, but of more impact is the fact that I have children and grandchildren in Durham and Czech Republic who I wasn't able to see for such a long time. Creative inspiration has all but disappeared. During the first lockdown, I was trying to work in my garage, which proved impossible, but since then I have been able to make my workshop fairly covid proof and so have been going in there. But my teaching, which I love, has all but dried up. Fortunately, I am involved with a group of printmakers going on walks and responding in their work, and this has now resumed, along with exhibitions of the work.

 

Has the pandemic or lockdown had any influence on your work, either positively or negatively?

It has made it very difficult to think constructively and develop ideas.

 

What plans do you have for your art going forward?

I want to explore the metalwork side of it much more, and push the boundaries further with my enamelling.

 

What practical advice would you give someone wanting to to take up your form of art professionally?

Find a decent teacher, then develop your own ways of doing things. Make as many contacts as you can in the art/craft world and use them unashamedly.

 

Where can people see your art?

Currently in Ragleth Gallery in Church Stretton, and exhibiting at the Qube in Oswestry as part of the Printmakers Pushing the Boundaries exhibition. Also at Shropshire Guild of Contemporary Craft shows and Open Studios events.