The Designer
Who I am.
Barrie Salau is a Melbourne-based master jeweller with over 30 years experience designing and handcrafting unique personal adornments. His work is individually commissioned by clients or purchased at the gallery in North Fitzroy. Barrie’s distinctive work has also been exhibited internationally and he was chosen as finalist in the De Beers Design awards of 1995 and 2000. He completed his training achieving the highest accolade of Australian apprentice of the Year.
What I do.
Barrie combines the traditional jewellery techniques and skills of hand forging raw precious materials with the softness and fluidity of wax sculpting to create organic contemporary bespoke pieces. “I hand draw designs as part of my commission service and will offer unique and beautiful gems for my clients with a priority for ethically sourced gems wherever possible”.
The Process
Barrie works with all gold carats and colors as well as silver and platinum, often combining colors to create highlights and contrasts. The world of gems stones is infinite and spell binding. Barrie sources ethical gemstones whenever possible and has a particular affinity with old cut and coloured diamonds. South Sea pearls, in all their wonderful tones are also a source of wonder.
Using a blend of tradition hand forging techniques and wax sculpting, Barrie strives to achieve seamless, flowing designs. The components merge together harmoniously.
“Moving parts are hidden within the design or are apart of the overall flow. The result is a whole rather than just a combination of parts.”
After consulting with clients, noting their tastes and desires, Barrie uses a combination of a scaled digital framework which is adjusted to the required dimensions and hand drawn over to create well proportioned, flowing designs.
Every new design is as important as the last and Barrie loves a new challenge
The Studio
Filigree and Shadow is a carefully and uniquely designed space utilizing materials that are iconic to Melbourne’s history. Old and new comes together to create a warm and eclectic atmosphere. Clients can relax, discuss ideas and view pieces on the lounge surrounded by rustic timber pedestals, pressed metal features, antique iron lacework and high, crisp white walls. The workshop at Filigree and Shadow is an integral part of the space where clients can experience the different facets that combine to create their unique personal adornment.