Growing up in the Scottish Highlands, surrounded by sea and mountains, Cameron shaped her love of imperfect beauty and erosion. It was in places so steeped in history, so pristine and beautiful, that Cameron began her research into topophilia – a term used to describe a person’s attachment to their surroundings, the mental, emotional and cognitive bond one can have with a place.
But before dedicating herself to jewellery making, Cameron originally wanted to study sculpture or painting. There are quite a view similarities to these fields in her work as a jewellery designer: She collages and paints initial sketches that she uses to create small three-dimensional ‘jewellery sculptures’. Cameron always incorporates her Scottish heritage into her work: she deconstructs historical forms into sculptural pieces of jewellery that can be passed down through generations.
© Courtesy of the artist
Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?
I live in East London primarily, but I’m from the Highlands of Scotland, so I split my time between London and Scotland. London is where I have my studio and where I create my work, whereas Scotland is where I find my inspiration. I’m incredibly lucky to have a balance between fast-paced and slow living; both are incredibly important to both my work and my life in general.
I also get to travel to America a few times a year (specifically New York & California) so I’m very lucky to have work where I can experience so many different places.
Do you have a favourite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?
In London – I have a membership at The Ned; I love their Library Bar and their Sauna and Spa for unwinding.
I also live close to Broadway Market in East London, which is filled with gorgeous shops and places to eat. My current favorites are Off Broadway for Earl Grey Martinis and Okko for Crab Tacos. The local flower market is also nearby; so a Sunday spent in Broadway Market & Columbia Road is perfect.
In Scotland – Being in nature is extremely relaxing, especially in contrast to my life in London, so whether it’s on my local beach or for a walk up the nearest mountain, it’s all beautiful. If you’re traveling to the Highlands of Scotland, visit the Isle of Iona – in Summer it has blue seas and the water feels tropical. The island is only a few miles long, but it‘s the most magical place.
© StuzzyW / Scotland tourism office
Are there any urgent political issues or problems in your region?
I think there’s always the issue of fairness, and right versus wrong, regardless of where you live in the world. Comparing London to Scotland, the cost of living is significantly different too. I think remaining true to your principles, wherever you live is so important. Everyone will be coming from different circumstances and everyone has lived their own journey. I think it’s worth remembering and having an awareness that your path will be unique to you and having compassion for others. I grew up in working-class circumstances, so remember who you are and where you come from is important; I’m grateful for the life I’ve built and always striving to do more.
In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years – and what has not?
London is always an exciting city culturally – I love living in East London; there are so many interesting and creative people here. In the last few years, I have seen a trend towards shopping independently, avoiding chain stores and fast fashion, which is really great to see.
Likewise, in Scotland, the creative scene has really developed – I’ve noticed it, particularly in cities like Edinburgh, but also further afield. I think people are moving back towards quality, not quantity, regardless of geographic location.
Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers – whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?
Edinburgh, Scotland
– ætla: a beautiful jewelry boutique that stocks my work, independent, female-owned, with a focus on traceable materials.
– Corniche: an independent clothing store, with exciting designers.
– The Black Grape: delicious food, well sourced and curated.
London
For clothing:
– Studio Wylder for jackets
– Cawley Studio for silks.
For curated living:
–Beton Brut: so much of my studio & home furniture is from there.
For art:
– Grace Rose Watts & Alexandra Yan Wong – I have paintings from both artists.
© ætla
Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited?
There is a sense of slow living in Scotland, particularly in the Highlands – things will get done ‘when they get done‘ – there is less of a rush and more of a focus on doing things well. There is incredible seafood in Scotland – the best scallops I have ever had are still the ones from the town nearest my village, in a small seafood shack on the pier, John Ogden’s. In London, the pace is much faster, but there are still pockets of pause within the city. Creativity – whether art, fashion, or food – is so rich here, I am spoilt for choice.
Do you have a secret restaurant tip that you would like to share with us?
In London:
Papi’s is a short walk from where I live and their food is delicious. The Chef’s table is the best place to sit, to watch the chefs at work.
In Edinburgh:
Black Grape (mentioned above) is delicious. We also had catering from Avery for a recent show at ætla – which was wonderfully immersive.
© Papi
Is there a local shop whose products are only available in your region?
In Scotland:
Mentioned above, but ætla has a really good range of independent Scottish designers; it’s a very curated selection, all with very unique styles. I also love The Fruitmarket Gallery.
In London:
Again mentioned above, but both Studio Wylder & Cawley Studio are independent, woman-owned clothing brands. On Broadway Market we also have great bookstores – Artwords Bookshop & Donlon Books.
© The Fruitmarket Gallery
What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?
I use Instagram to share my work, thoughts, and ideas (@ellismhairicameron)
Whatsapp for messaging – running my life and my business.
And Monzo – for keeping track of finances, budgeting, and running my brand.
Do you have any favourite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?
FT – HTSI is my favourite Sunday read. I read The Guardian & The New York Times daily news updates, and I love Gentlewoman, Vogue & Vanity Fair.
Imagine you could be mayor for a year – what would you change?
More funding for the arts and creative industries, to make it easier for people from every background to start a brand, develop an idea, or study in the arts.
© Mick Knapton / Scotland tourism office
One last question: If you could choose another place to live – regardless of financial or time constrains – which one would you choose?
I actually love how I am able to split my time; I’m lucky in the fact I don’t think I would change anything. I love visiting other countries, so for holidays I would love to explore more of the world, next on my list is Vienna.
© Courtesy of the artist
