Lydia Asscher, Artist And Myth Hunter
At a recent local makers day hosted by the Makers Barn in Petworth, we had the pleasure of meeting the incredibly talented metalsmith, Lydia Asscher. Inspired by her intricate work and the passion she brings to her craft, we were eager to dive into Lydia's world and share her story with our readers.
Lydia warmly describes the Makers Barn as a hub for rural craftspeople, fostering a deep connection to craftsmanship and enriching the experience of handcrafted items. On special occasions like Makers Days, Lydia's artistic brilliance converges with other skilled artisans.
Fueled by an unwavering desire to create, Lydia started her metalsmithing journey during her art foundation at Brighton Metropolitan. Under the guidance of an exceptional tutor, she was introduced to the world of metalsmithing, a transformative experience that paved the way for her craft. Lydia's journey continued as she found herself under the mentorship of a remarkable blacksmith in Farnham, enriching her skills and knowledge. Reflecting on this pivotal period, Lydia passionately affirms, "I have always created art of some type or another. It's a manifestation of my personality; I simply can’t not be making something”.
Lydia’s preferred medium is metals, despite also loving to paint and draw. She indulges in various techniques such as fold forming, soldering, and riveting. The majority of Lydia's metalwork involves chasing and repoussé, a process using steel tools and a hammer to intricately design sheet metal. Her choice of materials, especially silver and copper, are deeply rooted in strong folk history, connecting her work to the artistic traditions of working craftspeople.
Nature, oral traditions, folklore, and the local Sussex fauna deeply fuel her creativity. Reflecting on school days, Lydia noted the drastic change between the sea and Chichester in her daily route, emphasising Sussex's remarkable diversity—flat and sandy, and wooded hills. Always connected to the land, Lydia also immerses herself in oral traditions from local families, shaping her unique perspective on Sussex's ever-changing landscape.
Living off-grid in a showman's wagon near Petworth, Lydia details the challenges and rewards of her unique lifestyle. Her studio, situated in a trailer, relies solely on solar or generator power. While the setup time extends the process of creating her one-of-a-kind pieces, Lydia embraces it for the heightened awareness it brings to the energy, time, and skill invested in her crafts—echoing methods from the Bronze Age and amplifying the authenticity of her artistic process.
This off-grid existence not only shapes Lydia's artistic process but also becomes a tangible manifestation of her deep connection to the land. For Lydia, her art transcends a mere creative pursuit; it serves as a heartfelt ode to nature.
“I see my art as love letters to the land and the beauty of nature and the creatures in it. Artists have a place in this world to reignite this reverent culture of seeing outside of yourself and recognising the reverence in everything. We are the indicators of society; if there’s a problem, artists are usually addressing it. It's typically artists who take those initial steps into a newer realm of understanding. As an artist, I want to remind people and awaken them to the animacy that is everywhere; art is activism.”
Lydia's unwavering commitment to her craft is enriched by her immersive experiences at West Dean College. Here, she has delved into a myriad of courses and collaborated with skilled silversmiths. What resonates with Lydia is the college's dedicated commitment to fostering opportunities for emerging artists and craftsmen, a sentiment she holds in high regard.
An advocate for the transformative power of education, Lydia passionately encourages aspiring crafters to explore the diverse courses offered by West Dean College. Emphasising the institution's proactive approach to supporting talent, Lydia urges young individuals to explore potential opportunities, including bursaries, that can ease the financial aspect of their learning journey. West Dean College stands ready to embrace and assist young enthusiasts in their quest for knowledge and skill development.
To explore Lydia Asscher's captivating world of metal craftsmanship, you can connect with her through her website. Whether you're drawn to commission a bespoke piece, delve into small collections, or acquire a unique one-of-a-kind creation, Lydia welcomes you to embark on a journey through her artistry. Visit her website for an immersive experience and the opportunity to bring a piece of Sussex-inspired beauty into your life.
