Artist's offbeat jewellery hit with Marton Pop-Up Gallery visitors

Artists Desiree Singer (left) and Rachel Stockley are proud to exhibit at the Pop-up Marton Gallery. Photo / Lin Ferguson.

Rachel Stockley's eyes gleam when they alight on an interesting piece of metal.

From wristwatch casings and working to old keys or just old metal dangly bits she can conjure up a quirky jewellery piece.

Her fascinating jewellery is proving highly popular at the Marton Pop-Up Gallery in Follet St.

The gallery features work by 26 artists from throughout the Rangitikei, on display until December 23.

From sculptures and pottery, to glorious rainbow-coloured woven scarves, shawls and rugs to paintings in miniature and huge colourful works on the wall.

The exhibits, all cheek-by-jowl, make the gallery an eclectic and wonderful mix of art.
Rachel said her metal bits of jewellery had just ''come to her".

"I saw something in these pieces that were being thrown out and... well I just started designing a different kind of jewellery.''

From brooches and earrings, to an array of special pendants, Rachel said the jewellery had been popular.

"Which is great because I love making it.''

With friend and artist Desiree Singer the two women were having their stint on gallery duty last week.

Last year the temporary Pop-up Gallery made about $16,000 which had thrilled the 26-strong collective of artists.

"The thing is you never get tired off looking at the gorgeous art on display here. People come in and most stay for ages and come back again.

"And it's a great day doing a volunteer stint here.''