I'm happiest out in nature. Observing. Slowing down. Spacing out on textures, rocks, found treasures.
My work emerges from this dream space.
My name is Ania. I'm a jewellery designer and a co-founder of Praktyka a eco art retreat I set up with my husband Henry in 2018. It’s a place made out of dreams and love.
A place that grows and evolves with us and all the amazing people who have visited us over the years.
I'm also an artist. I moved to the UK from Poland over 20 years ago ( stopped counting ) to realise my dream of going to art school in London. I studied in University of the Arts London in both Camberwell and LCC. I loved both especially Camberwell School of Art where I spend most years in the darkroom.
My first passion was photography and I have studied fine art photography then worked as a still life photographer for almost 15 years. My work was published in many magazines from The Times, Guardian, Elle Decoration, House & Garden, Wallpaper etc I also worked for book publishers and collaborated with wonderful set designers, stylists, art directors.
It was life spend creating sculptures, making shapes to capture them in one perfectly curated shot.
I also love change and new challenges. I like fitting in many lifetimes within one such precious life so I left it all behind to start again.
To live "slower life closer to nature", to put hands in the soil, to grow trees, build house close to the wild shores. To become grounded in elements and to expand my being.
My practice became this land. Praktyka. Homebuilding. Retreat dreaming. Learning. Growing. Creating jewellery as a reminder of this connection to land to share with others. Little treasures to hold close.
Jewellery is a continuation of my sculptural exploration. Medium has changed. Yet at the heart of it there is attention. Slowing down. Love of my craft.
My jewellery comes from the observations of the natural world, from the largest expanses down to the smallest particle. I use traditional lost wax carving and casting techniques in combination with in place casting of precious stones. Each piece is one of a kind and has the unique tactile quality of a handmade object. I'm drawn to the meditative process of jewellery making. Work emerges from a contemplative space and making each piece is a process of discovery.
So here we are in North Devon. Emptiness full of wonder. World beyond the reach of time. There is something pure and elemental about this corner of the world....
Get in touch to commission bespoke rings or lost wax carving workshops. You can also stay with us here in North Devon at Praktyka and explore this place we love so dearly.