Bejewelling Shakespeare’s Women

An eye-catching new exhibition has commenced in Tamworth City Library today, with a highlight being an Author Talk at the end of the month.

Bejewelling Shakespeare’s Women is a look at some of the women that are a part of William Shakespeare’s literary works, such as Juliet, Beatrice, Lady Macbeth, Cleopatra and Ophelia, to name a few. 

Artist and author Tessa Morrison has a background in art history, critical research, design and jewellery and specialises in enamel jewellery. This background has led to her designing and handcrafting a beautiful collection of enamel necklaces that depict the character and story of 16 of Shakespeare’s female characters.

The exhibition will be on display in Tamworth City Library from today, Friday 2 to Thursday 29 February 2024, along with the accompanying book, bringing alive the textual imagery of Shakespeare.

Ms Morrison will be visiting Tamworth City Library on Thursday 29 February at 2pm for an Author Talk. During this visit she will be discussing the characterization of the women she has depicted in these necklaces, and how the enamel lends itself to storytelling, thus making it possible to illustrate Shakespeare’s imagery. 

Senior Librarian Ita Hanssens said Ms Morrison will also talk through what inspired her to craft these pieces, and write the accompanying book. “The Author Talk will be a chance to understand the different techniques used to create these enamel necklaces, and the process of translating Shakespeare’s textual imagery into visual imagery for each of the women,” she said.

This event is completely free; however, bookings are still required and can be made via the following link https://bit.ly/CNRLtessa