AKIN member Sarah Stafford exhibiting at Gallery57

After a break from exhibiting, Sarah is one of nine artists displaying work in the ‘arc, angle, plane, form’ spring exhibition at Gallery57on Arundel’s Tarrant Street.

“It’s been a long time since I even saw my work in craft galleries,” says Sarah. “More than 10 years ago, I took the decision to stop stocking galleries to work to commission only with my fine jewellery.”

Now, having taken six years away from full-time making to raise her two children, Sarah is redefining her direction. Visitors to Juniper Caféon Tarrant Street might have seen Sarah’s arresting wall art and she is thankful to the owners, her friends Jenny and Russell Le Page, for their support as she pursues her new path.

“Jewellery is my first love and it’s an industry that I know well, so it’s an easier path to resurrect after a break,” she explains. “However the wall pieces and prints offer a really exciting new way of working and I love the exploration of following my signature design ethos but in wildly different media. Exhibiting prints in an art gallery setting is new territory for me, and it’s completely vital for the progression and development of work.”

Sarah is also boosted by people’s reaction to her work on the walls. “Making is a very solitary occupation, so hearing responses from people new to my work is incredibly uplifting - as is seeing my pieces hung in the same space as other makers I admire. Ann Symes, the owner of Gallery57, who has an incredible eye for exceptional art has really encouraged me to persevere with my prints.”

Sarah shares fellow AKIN members delight to have discovered new pools of creativity in and around Arundel. “I’ve lived in the town for nearly six years and it still surprises me virtually every day. The breadth of creative talent here is incredible. I’m looking forward to the collaborations that lie ahead.”

The Gallery57 show runs until 11th May. For more information and opening times visit the Gallery 57 website – gallery57.co.uk