Inspired by their Scots-Pakistani heritage, Sonny Cooper from Near Moffat in Dumfries and Galloway is the creator of highly contemporary jewellery which draws on ancient traditions and imagery.
The pieces Sonny creates are determinedly non-gender restrictive – with the emphasis purely on whether they suit someone’s personal style.
Sonny is one of six jewellery designers taking part in this year’s Spring Fling open studios weekend from 24-26 May, which will see more than 80 artists and makers across Dumfries and Galloway throw open their doors to the public.
Sonny’s family were displaced during the Partition of India in 1947 which saw the creation of two states – India and Pakistan. Their grandfather, Asid Chaudry, came to study in the UK, fell in love and married a British woman.
In recent years Sonny has rekindled links with their family in Pakistan and became fascinated by the jingling sounds of the desi jewellery worn by many women.
“I’m proud of my heritage and like to reflect it in my work, sometimes with references to desi jewellery.
“Visiting Pakistan I loved hearing the sound of my aunties’ jewellery as they came into a room – so I have started building kinetic qualities into some of my own work.
“The jewellery I create is intended to appeal to people as individuals, for their personal look and tastes, and in no way gender restrictive,” says Sonny.
They also use motiffs from other times and cultures, including detail from Mughal architecture, and Syrian designs and the Hands of Bacchus.
Sonny works in recycled silver and the range of work is extensive, from necklaces and bracelets made from dining forks to a multitude of rings.
Based near Moffat, Sonny’s workshop is in a caravan but the jewellery will mostly be displayed in the eco-friendly home built by their parents.
Spring Fling is divided into six colour coded suggested routes which people can easily drive around. Each also has a virtual studio you to look at. Sonny, who is a first-time participant, is on the Red Route and the other jewellery designers are:
- Jesse Ball, Castle Douglas (Pink Route)
- Alison Macleod, Thornhill (Green Route)
- Sheena McMaster, Borgue (Purple Route)
- Kaz Robertson, Thornhill (Green Route)
- Natalie Vardey, Balmaclellan (Pink Route).
Natasha Kinsella, Events and Exhibitions Development Manager for Upland CIC which runs Spring Fling, said:“Jewellery is always one of the major attractions of Spring Fling – the variety is always superb as is the quality.
“It’s a chance to buy pieces that are hand-crafted, superbly designed and different from anything you are likely to find in High Street stores.”
Sneak preview of Sonny’s jewellery and Rebecca Woods’ pottery
Catch two very different Spring Fling participants for a special sneak preview ahead of the open studios weekend.
Sonny Cooper and potter Rebecca Woods will be doing demonstrations at Moffat Farmers’ Market outside the Town Hall on 11 May.
Sonny will be working on new pieces, chatting about their process, and showcasing a range of silver jewellery. It’s a chance for a relaxed look into the world of handmade jewellery and taste of what to expect at Sonny’s Spring Fling studio.
Rebecca will be using the potter’s wheel to throw a variety of pots, showcasing the throwing technique in action. She will talk through the process, explaining how a lump of clay transforms into a finished form, and share insights into Rebecca’s pottery style.
- For more about Spring Fling see https://www.spring-fling.co.uk.
