Toby Cotterill

Toby Cotterill is based in West Yorkshire but grew up near the coast in West Wales, and spent most of his childhood playing outside with his brothers, exploring rockpools, or making things. Most of his ideas have roots in this early immersion in nature.

After an Art Foundation course at Carmarthen School of Art he studied Design: Craft at Staffordshire University, spending two years experimenting with materials before specialising in fine metal work and jewellery. He uses traditional silversmithing techniques, forging sheet silver over steel stakes and into pitch and wooden formers, using hammers and punches. Three- dimensional forms are articulated, fused, and finished with enamels, gold or oxides to create lively, humorous pieces of wearable sculpture.