Handcrafted bespoke silver

By Nicola Roake

Nicola Roake has over 25 years experience in traditional silversmithing. Born and raised in Christchurch, New Zealand, she developed skills in design and creation of silver jewellery in the early 1980’s.With her husband and three young children, Nicola relocated to Oxford, United Kingdom in 1989 and joined The Jewellery and Silversmiths Society of Oxford (JASSO). She received formal tuition in the techniques of silversmithing and over 9 years in the UK, produced numerous unique pieces and was exhibited widely including The Goldsmiths Hall, London. Nicola was elected chairman of JASSO and tutored in silversmithing before returning to New Zealand in 1997.

She has studied anticlastic raising under the tutelage of Michael Good, who is acknowledged around the world as the master of this modern discipline.

The combination of traditional and anticlastic techniques facilitates creation of complex sculptural forms in precious metals.Nicola has established herself as one of New Zealand’s foremost silversmiths and has developed a well appointed workshop at her home in Christchurch. She has continued to produce unique commissioned works, to teach the techniques she mastered in the UK, and to exhibit in New Zealand.

Her works are held in private collections in New Zealand and throughout the world.

Nicola enjoys working on design and development of individual pieces and excels in creating beautiful forms that express the ideas and aspirations of her clients.