Frances Brennan

I am a metalsmith, making contemplative sculptural objects. My work makes constant reference to nature whether intentional or otherwise. I work with both the random and the planned, valuing the process and the ideas that emanate from the process. The work evolves while in my hands and I am often surprised by the results, sometimes only understanding the origin when the work is complete. I am comfortable with my chosen material, metal, but relish the excitement that the introduction of other materials brings. I envisage these contemplative sculptures in domestic settings, gallery spaces, public art situations and architectural interiors and exteriors.

Education
1994-96 BTEC Art and Design, Kensington and Chelsea College, London
1996-99 BA Hons Silversmithing and Metalwork, Camberwell College of Art
1999-00 Teachers’ Training Certificate, Kensington and Chelsea College 

Selected Exhibitions
1999 ‘(X)HIBITION’, The London Institute Gallery
2000 'Three Squared', Kingsgate Gallery, London
2002 Contemporary Decorative Arts Exhibition, Sotheby's, London
2002 Dazzle, RNT South Bank, London
2003 'Out There', Crafts Council, London
2003 'Land and Sea', Rufford Craft Gallery
2003 '100 Words for Snow', City Gallery, Leicester
2004 'Inside Out', Contemporary Applied Arts
2004 ‘Merging Cultures’, National Gallery of the Cayman Islands 
2005 ‘Modern Masters’ Handwerksmesse, Munich
2005-6 Jerwood Applied Arts Prize: Metal. Shortlist Touring Exhibition
2006 ‘Studio Space’ Contemporary Applied Arts, London
2007 London Art Fair, Four Square Fine Arts
2007 ‘Textilkunst’, Handwerksmesse, Munich
2007 ‘Urban Field’, Crafts Study Centre, Farnham
2007 ‘Hidden Treasures’, Hub, Sleaford
2007 ‘ReForm’, Black Swan Arts, Frome, Somerset

Collections and Commissions
1999 Julian Markham, Chairman, The London Institute
2001 Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines
2005 Mrs. Leslie Craze, Leslie Craze Gallery, London
2005 Mr. Bill McCabe, Broughton Gallery, Scotland
2006 Carrington Wire Ltd., Yorkshire
2007 Holding 10 Collection

Publications
2003 Crafts Magazine, September Issue
2003 AN Magazine
2005 Crafts Magazine, August Issue
2005 Jerwood Prize Applied Arts Catalogue
2007 Urban Field, Crafts Study Centre, Farnham