METALWORK ART BY SHARON MCSWINEY – Art has always been one of my favorite subjects and my taste runs from beautiful ceramics, delicate porcelains, and in all genres, from contemporary art, abstract art through to traditional pieces. I think most of us can say that as we grow older we learn to appreciate different types of art and as you look closer to any type of art form you begin to adopt a passion and appreciation for the individual artist, their talent and creativity.
One area of art that I really like is metalwork and I recently stumbled upon Sharon McSwiney who runs a quaint workshop in ‘The Fold’, which is a small community of artists, in Bransford, Worcestershire, England.
Sharon, in my opinion produces some of the most wonderful pieces of metalwork art that ranges from wall plagues, greetings cards, wall panels and even jewellery. Today I am going to showcase some of Sharon’s work, and in particular her Wall Plaques, as I personally think these are just wonderful pieces that would fit into any interior design and would add something special to anyone’s home.
As always, I do not receive, nor seek to receive, any type of commission from Sharon’s work. I simply write about the things I love, that inspire me and hopefully will inspire you.
Stunning Metalwork Wall Plaque.
The piece above is just a wonderful piece of art. The burnished copper produces some wonderful coloration and brings the leaves to life.
Four piece wall plaque.
Another variation of the first piece, although this time it is laid out differently. I really do love the raw nature of this piece and it wouldn’t matter if you lived in a country style cottage or a contemporary home, as this would be perfect either way. I can only imagine just how beautiful these will be once lit with some soft contemporary interior lighting.
Leaf Wall Plague in stunning bronze colors.
A beautiful rustic feel that brings the nature elements, the bird and leaves, to life. Careful oxidization really does lift Sharon’s work from a flat base to a spectacular sense of warmth. Just take a moment to look at all the colors in the piece above – from the burnt fiery orange to the subtle earthen greens – there is a lot going on here if only one takes a moment to gaze upon such beautiful work.
Beautiful leaf wall plaque.
These next few pieces focus on Swirling Leaf Wall Plaques, which I have to confess I adore. Each one has a unique coloration and it is impossible for me to pick a favorite. With this type of artwork you could match it with almost any color scheme your home has and I personally would add just one or two pieces to a wall in order to allow the artwork to make its presence felt in the room.
Leaf Wall Plaque in Autumn Colors.
Swirling Leaf Wall Plaque.
In the final piece below, we get a glimpse as to the amount of work that goes into producing such wonderful objects. Look closely at the bird and the leaves and note the wonderful patterning that has been applied. Look further down and see the beauty that is produced through the rich coloration of the Autumn leaves. I am sure you will agree that Sharon’s work is not only technically brilliant but is simply stunning and sublime to gaze upon.
Birds on an Autumn Branch.
Sharon is originally from Evesham, in the United Kingdom. She currently works from a studio in The Fold. Sharon graduated from the School of Jewellery with a BA (Hons) in Jewellery & Silversmithing. Sharon’s jewellery and metalwork often features quirky and imaginative animal & bird designs. Base metal pieces are copper plated and brush finished, while her jewellery pieces are of silver. Inspiration includes children’s illustrations, gardening, folk art & textiles. In addition to jewellery Sharon also produces larger scale wall panels, garden sticks and greetings cards.
Sharon’s Website: Sharon McSwiney – Metalwork Artist
Please do check out Sharon’s website – she has an amazing array of artwork displayed which you will find simply mind blowing in beauty.
I really hope you have enjoyed the brief journey through some of Sharon’s work. If you have any comments please leave these below.
