People: Anita Crowther
Name: Anita Crowther (she/her)
Location: Melbourne / Naarm, VIC
Occupation/ Business: Jeweler
Who makes up your family? Myself, my partner Peter, daughter Edith and dog Ziggy
What core principles / values inform your practice? I enjoy the process of making and being able to see an idea materialise, it’s very satisfying. The challenge of working on a small scale involves a focus that becomes mesmerising. I enjoy being in this space mentally. I believe that in a way the energy and intent of the maker is transferred into the object. If it comes from a place of joy and curiosity then it expresses that.
I cut and polish most of the stones that I use in my pieces. Creating colour combinations with stones is my main inspiration. I favor working with Australian stones from small-scale mining and fossicking as It's nice to buy from people who have found the material themselves and to know where it has come from, it makes me feel more connected to the piece.
These values crossover into my daily life as being in the moment and enjoying it. Since having a baby and observing how fast she develops and changes I have really come to savour the moment and take joy in so many tiny things.
What are you currently working on? Right now I am creating pieces using Australian opals. I am using opal more in my practice, I find it very inspiring. Each one is so unique, containing their own tiny universe, it's so easy to get drawn into them.
What daily practices or rituals connect you with your centre? My creative practice connects me to my centre. I find cutting and polishing stones very meditative as it is often a slow and precise process that I get really absorbed in, as with the gold and silversmithing.
Finding personal time with a baby can be challenging, so just simple things like having a shower or going for a walk by myself are nice opportunities to get centred.
What does community mean to you? To me It simply means being connected to people. I see it as different groups of people whom I connect with for different purposes, it doesn't need to be localised.
How does community care and self-care intersect for you? Unfortunately the arrival of covid-19 and the arrival of my baby coincided. I now more than ever realise how important connecting with people is. Self-care isn’t just inward, connecting socially is an element of self-care which contributes greatly to a positive mentality.
How has motherhood/ parenthood impacted your identity? It is a rite of passage. It has been like starting a different life, a shared life. The pace is slower, my focus has shifted, decisions are more considered as I am now a protector and provider. I have expanded as a person. I am less inhibited. A new form of love fills my life and occupies my time.
What is something you're proud of? I am proud of what I create. I am proud of being a mother.
Where can we find you (website, IG etc.)? You can find me on Instagram @anitacrowtherjewellery, and my website anitacrowther.com
21.01.2022
