Meet Shirani Fernando, jeweller in London
Hi, I am Shirani
Shirani who is originally from Sri Lanka moved to England in 1986. She is a single parent to two children and she became a preschool teacher to be able to look after her children. She was a preschool teacher for 12 years and eventually when both of her children had grown up she decided to follow her dreams.
She studied Art and Design Diploma at Harlow college and BA hons in Applied Arts at Hertfordshire university.
Then to further her knowledge of jewellery making she went to study at The London Metropolitan University where she achieved The Goldsmith of the year award.
In 2021 she started her business Shirani Jewellery.
Since, Shirani has set up her own business mainly working from her garage turned workshop. She has won Goldsmiths Craft and Design Award 2024, The Modern maker Award 2024 among others.
She has showcased her work in many venues in London including The Forge Gallery and Duality exhibition and International Jewellery exhibition in Rumania.
The jewellery collection
The Light and Shadows collection brings together the window panel designs from Sri Lanka and architectural aesthetics and sculptural forms of buildings and bridges.
Fascination of the shadows cast from decorative open cutout pattens of wooden window panels and metal grills and gates is the inspiration behind Shirani’s Light and Shadows collection.
Shirani brings her jewellery designs to life by using repetitive patterns and the interplay of light and shadows.
By adding colour in the form of black and gold, silver and gold, texture and 3 dimensional structure to highlight details she creates the shadow effect in her work.
Combing the beautiful window panel designs from the east with western designs of architectural shapes and forms Shirani creates unique wearable art statement jewellery as well as everyday items.
Using recycled silver and ethically sourced gem stone in her work is very important to her.
Shirani believe that jewellery design whether it be for everyday or for a special occasion, should catch the eye.
