Matrix Ring Series - The Matrix Series is the latest body of work produced as a result of my ongoing research into the convergence of sociology, philosophy and craft. These pieces are a development of its predecessor, the Hierarchy Ring. A piece which subverted the form and function of classic signet rings and questioned how societal class systems manifest themselves in modern society. In recent years we have seen a destabilisation in global politics which had gone largely unnoticed by the average person until the highly publicised 2020 American Election. The tactical proliferation and dissemination of misinformation and weaponisation of digital media led to wide spread scepticism. Distrust in this information led to radicalisation of people on all side of the political debate. In general people in general have become more conscious of their position within society and of the systems put in place to keep them there. Idioms like “eat the rich” and “alternative facts” became commonplace as people engaged in online debate. These digital spaces became incredibly polarising. Then Covid hit and our lives moved online. All nonessential activity became remote. Microsoft teams meeting during the day and zoom quizzes at night. We had to learn to navigate this tumultuous environment in order to stay connected. The Matrix series builds upon previous work through more focused analysis on the dualistic nature of the digital world. 3D printing technologies are introduced not only to create a more complex networks of woven 18ct Gold but as a means to further connect the making process to the digital world. These pathways adhere to computational procedure and visually reference circuitry expressing notions of digital connection and the transmission of information. In collaboration with lapidary artist Michelle Mai bespoke stones are incorporated. These alternative design to their facets introduces previously mentioned themes of the corrupted information. When worn, movement is introduced the by the human body and when hit by directional light the facets sweep with pixelated patterns. From conception these pieces were intended to be viewed wholistically as well as individually. 18ct yellow gold transitions to 18ct white. A steely blue Iolite is harmonised with a deep green tourmaline by subtle the gradients of the ametrine. While these rings could be oceans apart from one another the three wearers share a tacit and physical connection to one another as well as to the maker.

Matrix Rings -

Matrix Ring 1 - 18ct Yellow Gold, Tourmaline.

Matrix Ring 1 - 18ct Yellow Gold, Tourmaline.

Matrix Ring 1 - 18ct Yellow Gold, Tourmaline.

Matrix Ring 2 - 18ct Yellow & White Gold, Ametrine.

Matrix Ring 2 - 18ct Yellow & White Gold, Ametrine.

Matrix Ring 2 - 18ct Yellow & White Gold, Ametrine.

Matrix Ring 3 - 18ct White Gold, Iolite.

Matrix Ring 3 - 18ct White Gold, Iolite.

Matrix Ring 3 - 18ct White Gold, Iolite.