Julie Blyfield is a renowned Australian Metalsmith and Contemporary Jeweller
Based in Adelaide, South Australia, award-winning metalsmith Julie Blyfield is known for creating exquisite handcrafted jewellery, small silver vessels, and sculptural metal objects. Working from her garden studio, Blyfield draws deep inspiration from Australia’s rich native flora and fauna, transforming her observations into intricate, textured metalwork.
Specialising in pure silver and sterling silver, she uses traditional metalsmithing techniques such as hammering, chasing, punching, and piercing to develop surfaces that are visually rich and tactile. One of the key elements in her design practice is rhythmic repetition, a concept that informs both her creative process and aesthetic.
Julie also incorporates the traditional Korean technique known as joi-jil or jogeum—a method that allows her to craft delicate, feathered lines across metal sheets, adding a unique layer of detail to each piece.
Unlike many in her field, Blyfield prefers the title craftsperson or jeweller/metalsmith, rather than artist. In her words: "I like the word ‘craft’ as it really explains what I do—the old-fashioned ‘chip away’ method."
Julie Blyfield’s work is a celebration of contemporary Australian jewellery, craftsmanship, and the natural environment. Her pieces are widely exhibited and collected, both nationally and internationally.
“I really enjoy working with all plant forms but particularly the Australian eucalypts, wattles, and other native plants. Quite often, my eye is attracted to the simple leaf and petal forms I collect on walks in my neighbourhood or places we visit in the remote desert of northeast South Australia. The diverse range of native grasses and exotic plants, including a quandong tree, succulents, and gardenias in our garden, inspire me”
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Dates
1957 Born
1976-1978 Torrens College of Advanced Education, Adelaide, South Australia, Diploma in Teaching (Secondary Fine Art)
1984-1987 South Australian College of Arts and Education, Adelaide, South Australia, Associate Diploma of Jewellery Making & Silversmithing
Artwork
