Meet The Maker - Sarah Straussberg

This week we speak to Sarah Straussberg whose collection is characterised by bold geometric shapes and intricate repeating patterns. Finding inspiration in everything from the negative spaces within shadow and light, to the concentric circles in nature. Sarah's earring selection for the exhibition features everything from statement studs to geometric drops, capturing the space between jewellery and tiny wearable sculptures.

When your jewellery making journey begin?

My mother is an incredible jewellery designer (Lesley Strickland), but I was always sure I was going in a different direction and paving my own path. Focusing on sculptural objects during my ‘Materials’ degree at Brighton, my metal work became smaller and smaller until a friend of mine simply stated “It’s a ring, Sarah” And that was it, my collection spiralled in my final few months of university and I ended up selling a lot of those designs from the degree show. That seemed like a pretty good sign that it was the path for me, creating small, wearable sculpture.

Who inspires you the most? (No rules here, other jewellers, artists or even family & friends)

I’m mostly inspired by nature but sculptors too. I adore the work of Barbara Hepworth and Andy Goldsworthy.

If you weren’t a jeweller what would choose as a career?

A sculptor

Please can you tell us a little bit about your creative process?

Very playful in my design process, all of my designs stem from the same core geometry. I chop and change the this form to create different collections, or even just the wire shape, it’s amazing how different a form can feel when switching from round top square wire.

Sounds of the Studio - what are you listening to? We’d love to hear about podcasts recommendations/ studio playlists/ the sounds that motivate you?

I love listening to Audiobooks while I’m making, I’ve recently listened to Gabriel’s Moon by William Boyd and The Unwilding by Marina Kemp. I’m also a radio 4 enthusiast, I grew up with it always in the background – The Archers is a staple as well as PM

What’s next for you and your brand?

I’m currently expanding my silver offering as well as some exciting new diamond pieces – all to be revealed at Goldsmith’s Fair in September!

Which is your favourite piece you’ve ever made?

I think the Oona Eternity Ring is my most elegant piece to date, I adore how the curves collide and taper. But also the Carla Necklace, a statement piece that’s so versatile, being adjustable in length but also reversible.

If you could choose anyone, historical or current who would you love to create something for?

I would love to make a piece for Andrew Scott, I’ve seen so many of his incredible performances including Vanya, his talent is just amazing.

Sarah's Collection is available to view and purchase as part of our Summer Statements Exhibition. Featuring over fifty unique statement earrings, blending artistic flair with innovative design.

Showcasing the talented works of: Deco Echo, Gill Galloway-Whitehead Isobel Sullivan, Loveness Lee, Rebecca Burt, Ruth Leslie, Sarah Straussberg and Scarlett Cohen French.