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I wanted to utilise the idea of raw metal in its molten form to replicate the lines and textures found on the trees as they lose their bark and the negative space found with limpits that have holes in the shell as shown in my initial observations. I also have taken inspiration from the pictures of the leaves as repetition of form.

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Using 2mm wire, I created an outline shape for the ear piece using half round pliers. I then soldered this before testing it's fit around my ear to see if it was comfortable.

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This picture shows the molten shapes I created by creating rough shapes with wire and bullion which I then melted and fused together with a small flame. They were then pickled and magnetic polisher used to polish up and retain the texture created. I really like the organic, natural feel these have and they tie in well with my initial pictures and research, especially that of the tree bark.

It also shows the 1mm wire I used to create the hooks on the final piece. I beaded the end of the wires for comfort as they would be sitting on the ear.

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This picture shows the process of the hooks being soldered onto the frame and bent round to fit onto the outer periphery of the ear. I did this with each bit of wire individually by test fitting the ear frame and manually (very carefully) bending the wire into place before adjusting it with pliers once off the ear.

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This is the final piece. It can be worn as an ear cuff that looks like individual piercings, but is attached to the ear in an unconventional way. The charms add depth and organic flow, inspired by nature, but especially tree bark and limit shells. I tested wearing this to a club night, and found it to be mainly successful but tried taking it off and lost one of the little molten pieces (I made spare). I think next time I would try to find a way of keeping these on which didn't ruin the aesthetic of the piece. it also became evident that while secure once on, it is not the easiest to situate on the ear so next time I would try to make sure a smoother fit for ease of wearability.