Sue Plumb

My Story

Born in Australia, Sue spent her teenage years with her family in Europe and went to Art College in England. She pursued her passion for jewellery making, first at a Gold-smithing School in Holland, and completed her qualifications at RMIT upon her return. She began making and exhibiting her own jewellery, which has always been inspired by botanical form and natural materials. She is particularly drawn to the philosophy and aesthetic of the Arts and Crafts movement, which emerged in the 1880’s as a reaction against a decline in standards associated with manufacturing and mass production. Sue believes in the integrity of the handmade and does not abide by any discrimination between art and craft. With an emphasis on simplicity of design, organic line and form, she works predominantly in silver, sometimes incorporating carved wood and semi-precious stones.

She spent many years teaching Art and Design education in schools, developing sustainable design curriculum resources. Ten years ago, she and her husband embarked on a major project with the purchase of six acres of grazing land in Mansfield. In that time Sue has continued to teach Visual Arts in local schools, as they built a house, a productive garden and most recently, a studio. She views the property as a creative place that holds ethical and sustainable practices at the forefront of every undertaking. Sue is now dedicating more time to her own Art and assisting others in making theirs in her studio.

Awards & Exhibitions

1978 - Puzsar Special Award in Jewellery.

1979 - Exhibited “Alterozadorna”, Six Contemporary Jewellers, Paraphernalia

1983 - Exhibited in Makers Mark Brooch Competition Collins Street, Melbourne

1989 - Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery Jewellery Exhibition