My name is Joanna Creek and I make artisan jewellery in my studio near Llandysul in rural Ceredigion. I live, work and get most of my inspiration from this beautiful unspoilt part of West Wales with its green hills, wooded valleys and the spectacular Cardigan Bay coastline.

Most of my work is in ceramic which I make and decorate entirely by hand.

Many of my pendant and brooch designs are illustrative of my passions. I love the beach and swimming, hence my range of ‘Beach Belles’ and striped patterns reminiscent of deck-chairs, swimming costumes and beach balls! I often walk on the coast path looking at the sea, the rocks and the flora and fauna that inhabit them hence these things also turn up in my work.

I live a few miles inland and the trees, hills, birds and other creatures that I see from my studio or on my local rambles are also celebrated in small scenes depicted on pieces of jewellery.

My more abstract pieces are all about the enjoyment of putting texture into wet clay and of washing colours across the fired pieces.

The beads in my fabric jewellery are made from long strips of fabric rolled into tubes and completely sealed with lots of PVA. The result is a robust but incredibly light bead – ideal for making striking earrings that don't weigh too heavily on your ear lobes! I really enjoy looking at beautiful fabrics and then selecting a particular part of the design to make a special little bead. Once I have my finished beads, I team them up with other materials, beads and findings to create a range of unusual and very comfortable, wearable pieces.

My earrings all have sterling silver ear wires or studs. I put most of my pendants onto silver plated 18” snake chains but I have other lengths and types of chain and cord – just ask!

The finishing touch - all my jewellery comes in a box, hand-stamped with my logo.

I sell my work at fairs and exhibitions throughout Ceredigion and the neighbouring counties of Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire. I also supply a few local shops.