At Rowan, we constantly seek new ways to inspire our students to create. With funding from John Lewis Partnership Foundation in 2025, we engaged Lydia Hartshorm as our Art in Residence and ventured into the world of jewellery design. We are now pleased to share our range of unique handmade jewellery called ‘Made This Way’ which is available for purchase on our website with a limited range at Kettle’s Yard gift shop in Cambridge.
Several students participated in this project, contributing from the initial sketches to the final products. Working with Anna, Rowan’s Student Skills Development support, and collaborating with Lydia, jewellery maker, the pieces have truly come to life!
Student Artist Sasha’s Creative Journey
Sasha, a student artist, was involved in the project from the start. She kept a weekly diary of her work with Lydia, including researching jewellery styles and sketching concepts. This journey involved making models with paper, wire, and jump rings. A highlight was visiting the Botanic Gardens in Cambridge for inspiration. Sasha envisioned a ring connected to a bangle by a chain. Her drawings show the evolution from sketches to models to the final piece. “I loved the jewellery project. I found it relaxing and it really shows what Rowan is all about.”
Eloise Hits the Mark
One item we are especially excited about is the stunning necklace and earrings set that will be available at Kettle’s Yard. This creation comes from student artist Eloise. “I did some market research and found out their bestselling product were snowdrop earrings, which is where I got my inspiration from.” Her trip to the Botanic Gardens shaped her design process. Eloise’s early sketches show her concept’s development.
‘Made This Way’
Anna tells us all about how the name ‘Made This Way’ was created. “The collection name was a result of a “brain shower” session where we all came up with a very long list of potential names. We wanted to somehow express that it was made by a group of differently abled people without being too obvious and also that it was unique and handmade. It was decided by a vote as was the packaging though everyone was keen to have something sparkly!”
“The fun and enthusiasm from the student’s imaginations and discussions between them, Lydia and Anna were fascinating,” said Abi, Rowan’s Creative Workshops Manager. “It really shows how a six-month project can work in all its different stages and gave a taste of how professional jewellery maker’s work. We were very lucky to have such skilled and enthusiastic artists and tutors and students collaborating to make a fantastic, finished range of fun, beautiful bespoke jewellery pieces.”
You can now view and purchase our Rowan made jewellery selection on our website here.
