Exhibition Vist: 10 Years of Genna Design

With some of our favourite indie brands disappearing at an alarming rate (we miss you The Whitepepper!), coming across a small business that's been on the go for a decade is certainly an achievement. Genna Design is a business that's done just that. Designer, Genna Delaney, organised an exhibition of her work to celebrate and show the journey and changes in her work over the past 10 years. Normally we like to do studio visits to get a look behind the scenes of a designers work but this exhibition seemed like the perfect opportunity to get a glimpse into the history of Genna Design. Plus, Helen's done her fair share of snooping in Genna's studio after doing some jewellery hot desking there.

The exhibition itself was full of jewellery goodness. From college sketchbooks and early designs, right up to a brand new 3D printed collection, there was plenty of variety on show. The pieces still all linked together with Genna's distinctive style. Inspired by architecture she creates sculptural designs that are extremely wearable. We're big fans of her statement rings, use of colourful stones and the later introduction of perspex pieces. After looking at everything on display we decided it was time to delve a little deeper and put some questions to the lady herself.

1.) You just celebrated 10 years of Genna Design, what started you off on your jewellery journey?

I first got into jewellery when my Art Teacher suggested it to me. I was in 6th year, studying Art at high school, Largs Academy. I was a tom boy and didn't wear jewellery but really enjoyed drawing and making things. I liked the idea of studying architecture and learning how to make miniature scupltures out of metal. During my SYS studies project, I made Egyptian inspired pieces out of thin copper sheet. I loved it so much that I wanted to learn proper jewellery and silversmithing techniques. So after school, I applied to different universities and colleges studying various courses like interior design and architectural conservation but ended up choosing NC jewellery at Cardonald College as I knew I wanted to physically make things with my hands. As soon as I started working in metal, I was hooked!

2.) 10 years is a great achievement for a small business. What've been your highlights over that time?

I know I can't believe how quickly the time has went. Highlights have been winning a Goldsmiths award in 2006 and them using my image to promote the awards. Winning a Jolomo award and meeting the artist himself (John Lowrie Morrison) and having the opportunity to make lots of special and bespoke pieces for individual clients. I love how jewellery has sentimental value and makes people happy. I'm interested in helping people feel better about themselves and want to pass on my skills, so I am proud that I've started teaching jewellery making classes in my WASPS Studio. You get a great feeling when you give something back.

3.) We're big fans of your statement rings. Do you have a favourite piece or collection that you've made?

Why thank you! I absolutely love making them. My one off pieces are definitely my favourite pieces to make. I enjoy sourcing unusual and rare stones and set them in unique ways. I love using gemstones that have natural inclusions in them like my dendritic quartz ring and the rutiled quartz square wire ring. Each stone is a unique picture or landscape. I love that my statement rings are like miniture sculptures to be worn and adored.

4.) We love independent makers. Which designers inspire you and what's top of your wishlist?

I absolutely love Irregular Choice and TUK shoes! I have lots of creative friends and really love Judy Scott's textiles and printed, full of colour and pattern! I admire a lot of designers here at Wasps Studios in Dundee. But also love the greats like Alexander McQueen and Vivienne Westwood.

5.) What does the next 10 years hold for Genna Design?

I'm hoping that I'll find a celebrity ambassador to wear my jewels to help raise my profile further. My main goals would be to have my work in the new V&A when it opens in Dundee and to exhibit at Goldsmiths Fair in London. I would love to have my new 3d printed collection exhibited in galleries abroad. I'm also interested in helping people and collaborating with other artists/designer and organisations. I've always continued to change and evolve my brand, so who knows where the future will take me!



Thanks Genna!

You can see more of Genna's work on her website and if you're looking for a special jewellery shaped something get your order in now. Genna also offers jewellery making classes and, from the many questions asked while hot desking, Helen can assure you that she's a great teacher.