Ailsa W. Ritchie works from her studio in the beautiful Briggait building in Glasgow. Most of the time you can find her huddled over her workbench, working on custom jewellery in recycled precious metals and stones. She has created everything from classic gold wedding bands and diamond engagement rings to silver grasshopper brooches. Ailsa’s work is all about the small details, whether it’s picking up on the subtle surface of a rock and applying it to a wedding ring, adding leaf details to cradle a stone or decorating a pendant with the spots from a ladybug.
Ailsa’s fascination with insects and their habitats started at a young age and continues to influence her work. Her designs always start on paper, and she explores different methods of turning her loose drawing style into tactile jewellery pieces; such as etching, wax carving and combining traditional powder enamels alongside industrial enamel techniques to enable her to draw directly onto the metal. The result is jewellery bursting with texture and flowing lines.
Ailsa also teaches jewellery making classes at Central Scotland School of Jewellery in Dunblane. CSSofJ share her values of creating responsibly. Ailsa uses recycled metals as standard, Fairtrade gold, responsibly sourced stones and eco-friendly studio practices. You can read more about the steps she is taking here. Ailsa was one of the ‘Inaugural 100’ jewellers to join the Fair Luxury Provenance Pledge.
Training & Residencies
2020 - 2021 COMPASS: Emerging Maker Programme with Craft Scotland - COMPASS is Craft Scotland’s learning and development programme created specifically for makers, focusing on developing craft talent and creating a sustainable craft practice. Ailsa was one of 7 hand picked makers chosen to be part of the cohort.
2014 - 2015 Artist in Residence - Glasgow School of Art
2009 - 2013 Jewellery & Silversmithing BA(hons) - Glasgow School of Art
After graduation Ailsa interned and worked under a variety of skilled jewellers to hone and expand her skills.
Where else can you find me?
Teaching Jewellery making classes part-time in Dunblane at Central Scotland School of Jewellery
Craft Scotland is the home of Scottish contemporary craft. You’ll find the ultimate guide with the Craft Scotland Makers Directory
Selected Exhibitions & Events
‘Mad For Hoops’ Gallery 2052, Chicago (2022)
‘Tea Green Festive Market’ The Victoria & Albert Museum, Dundee (2019)
‘Mad For Hoops’ Gallery 2052, Chicago (2019)
‘Open Studios’ The Briggait, Glasgow (2019)
‘Lannair’ Tighnabruaich Gallery, Tighnabruaich (2017)
'Winter Showcase' Gill Wing Jewellery, London (2016)
‘Fresh AiR’ The Lighthouse, Glasgow & Dundee Contemporary Arts, Dundee (2015)
'Kindred Spirits' Studio Fusion Gallery, London (2014)
'MADE' Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Yorkshire (2013)
‘Best of Degree Show’ Six Foot Gallery, Glasgow (2013)
‘New Designers’ Business Design Centre, London (2013)
