Piece by Piece: Ciara Clark

Specialising in pieces made from acrylics, resins and non-precious materials that aren't usually associated with traditional jewellery design, Ciara Clark's work is innovative and pushes the potential of the materials and concept to produce extremely wearable but extremely striking jewellery – a hugely appealing combination.

The Manchester-born-and-raised designer has always been artistic. Clark explains: "Since I can remember I have enjoyed designing and making things. When I started I really didn't think too much about a career. I guess it has always been an option for me.

"After working for a number of years in various uninspiring jobs, I decided that I wanted to go back to college and study," she continues. "I have always enjoyed building and making things so a HND in 3D Design sounded like something I would enjoy, plus the prospectus said the course had a laser cutter, which I thought sounded very cool and high tech!"

She adds, playfully, that "I never actually got round to finishing that degree… maybe I will one day!"

Clark's interest in technology certainly seems to have continued, though: "As well as material experimentation, new technology in design also really inspires me," she says. "I currently create a lot of my work in 2D programs in Illustrator. I have just enrolled on a course to do 3D CAD [computer-aided design], though, and we have a 3D printer – I cannot wait to learn the possibilities of it."

When it comes to the inception of a design, however, Clark explains that she also uses more traditional processes: "I love making mood boards," she enthuses. "That is generally where the initial ideas start, followed by sketch book work. Material research which is followed by more sketch book work! It's only then when the elements that require laser cutting will be drawn up on Illustrator, cut and assembled."

Her combination of the technical with her creative eye for colour, choice of material and final composition seems to work perfectly in Clark's pieces – all clean lines, bold shapes and often industrial details. Is she influenced by the cityscape that surrounds her? "Maybe not consciously, but I have always liked the architecture and the heritage of Manchester, and I do think that this translates into my work," she comments.

Clark's latest collection introduces her "new current obsessions: iridescence and transparent materials" in the form of oversized hoops, shard drop earrings, and fragment-like rings. One of our favourite pieces is the holographic-looking choker neckpiece – which feels slightly space-age, but slightly tribal too. Clark's Spring/Summer 14 collection also comprises regal-looking headpieces, pieces juxtaposing matt and shiny finishes, and a new, softer texture in the form of fluffy pom poms and tassels – a perfect contrast to the minimal perspex and resin. She tells us: "I am currently exploring Corian (a blend of minerals and acrylic that creates a stone-hard surface), concrete and textiles. This type of material exploration is such an exciting aspect of the design process for me."

The designer has (very) recently set up We_Are_Kin studio in Manchester city centre along with two photographers, Marta Julve and Megan Goodwin. Clark says that it's currently under construction, but will house a photography studio as well as work spaces. This studio space will allow each of those involved to work individually, together and also with clients. "I love to collaborate. One of the main objectives of our new studio space is to encourage collaborative projects and work between ourselves and others," Clark explains.
 
This love of collaboration and the fusing of different disciplines are clear within Clark's work – and she has also begun working as a set-designer and stylist. She tells us: "I have a huge interest in and [desire] to explore props and installation pieces. I believe a lot of the techniques that I use in jewellery can be applied to other big scale projects."

The We_Are_Kin collective aims to "offer all aspects of print and design services for businesses and individuals," including set design, styling, photography and editing, specialising in creating imagery for look books, campaigns, press packs, product photography and catalogues. With all the up-and-coming design talent coming out of the Northwest at the moment, the studio and collective will surely prove a valuable resource for local creatives.

On Saturday 1 March from 7-10pm, We_Are_Kin are hosting an opening, where visitors will be shown around the new space and its facilities. The work of the three founders will be on display and there will also be the chance to get involved in a live and interactive photoshoot (with a prize for the best photo). If that wasn't enough, there will be "booze, music and free goodie bags for everyone that comes along." Sounds pretty good to us.

If you can't make it to the We_Are_Kin studio event on the night, you can keep up to date by keeping an eye on their Facebook page. To see more of Ciara Clark's jewellery, check out her website (which will soon have an online shop); you can also buy her work from the Manchester Craft and Design Centre and e-boutique Lavish Alice.