For Paresha Raj Burnett, Wimbledon Art Studios in Riverside Yard, have been the place to hothouse her blossoming artistic career.
As one of the largest single site art studios in Britain their philosophy is to give aspiring artists a place to become independent and create a community in which to work.
Originally from Leeds, Paresha moved to London to work for a boutique jewellery brand and then completed an MA in design at the Sir John Cass School of Art after five years as a jewellery buyer.
Now living in Lower Morden, Paresha has used her degree to kick start her growing jewellery business.
“I have two ranges I work on, firstly is my jewellery collection, all made from lazer cut Perspex the range is inspired by the 1930s costume jewellery I worked on during my MA,” she said.
The quirky and quaint pieces which show dainty floral patterns are delicately made by hand, combining extra materials such as gemstone beads and gold plated elements.
Paresha’s second venture has given her the chance to be fun and humorous with her work.
Her range of vintage ceramic tea cup pendants are so popular that she now supplies a range to in Think British, a shop selling handmade trinkets by St Pancras station.
Paresha offers a made-to-order service but her other charming creations dot the shop floor creating a magical Alice in Wonderland world of miniature.
Born to Indian parents, jewellery and in particular gold is a big part of her cultural heritage and has been an obsession for Paresha since she was a little girl.
And as a newlywed Paresha knows the impact and importance of special items of jewellery.
At her wedding she was adorned in hundreds of golden bangles, necklaces and chains and laughed that ‘99% of the world’s gold is on an Indian housewife’.
Jewellery is more than something to accessorise Paresha’s latest look, the meaning behind the pieces of art is what interests her the most.
Having concentrated on amulets throughout her MA degree Paresha describes how these attractive charms are more than just decoration.
She said: “Amulets could show status and wealth but they could also be a keepsake and memento from someone you love.”
Not only does jewellery look good, Paresha believes every piece has a meaning to the person wearing it.
She said: “When you buy a piece of jewellery for someone you think of that person in particular and that gift then makes them smile because it says something about them.”
Paresha has loved the London jewellery scene since she arrived and revealed her favourite shops.
“I love Les Nereides as well as Amrapali Jewels, an Indian jewellers but I love Wimbledon car boot sale for vintage inspiration the most!” She said.
“You can get so many bargains and it’s all very unique.”
The 30-year-old is currently working towards a collection of old Bollywood inspired rock and gem stone jewellery, with a more boutique look.
In her former career as a fashion buyer Paresha had to be very trend conscious, sourcing high end pieces that reflected the most up-to-date global styles.
But now Paresha is content to see how her new range evolves, she said: “I want to step away from the ‘current’ fashion and make something more unique
“I would like to make my motifs more niche. I‘m looking to incorporate natural images such as insects, bees and honeycomb to carry on that English garden theme.”
Wimbledon Art Studios are hosting an open exhibition from November 13 to 16.
Pictures courtesy of Paresha Raj Burnett, with thanks
