Feb 22

Feb 22 Meet the artist: Nikki Terlik

Today a new adventure for the Duncairn starts: Zoom classes! Nikki Terlik will be opening the dances with her first jewellery making class tonight.

Nikki is the affirmed local artist behind Empathy Creations, selling her precious jewellery at St Georges Market every other Saturday. She is also a brilliant and expert teacher. I’ve asked her a few questions to get to know her better.

How did you become a jewellery maker?

I started fiddling around and playing with beads with my gran and by the age of 16 I had started selling to friends/family, at festivals and to retail. I then decided to make a career of it and trained for 5 years altogether ending with a degree in art and silversmithing at Ulster University. After college I set up my business Empathy Creations, selling my jewellery at fairs, markets, exhibitions and retail shops while also tutoring workshops in the community, which I enjoy very much.

How does your creative process work?

It often starts with doodles and drawings, and then playing around with the materials.
I enjoy the whole design process from idea to paper to finished product.

What inspires your designs?

Inspiration can come from anything, for me it’s mainly coming from the natural world and the gemstones I’m using. Nature and what is around you have an influence on your designs even if you don’t realise it. I found that at different stages of my life, I am inspired by different things. What is going on in my life, the kids and my pets, find their way into my creations. I also follow fashion trends and I keep an eye on those for inspiration.

What will people learn in your course?

This will be a beginner course so we’ll start from the very basics of jewellery making. They will get an understanding of different techniques and materials. Every week they will learn something new and produce a new piece. Hopefully this will inspire them to continue learning this art.