From Foundry to Jewellery: The Story Behind Foundry Collection
Foundry Collection pieces begin as reclaimed bronze ‘splashes’ or ‘spill’, a by product of industrial casting at Newcastle Foundries (est. 1890), then reimagined and refined by artist Suzanne Curran into one-of-a-kind wearable sculpture.
The origin: Newcastle Foundries (est. 1890)
Foundry Collection begins in Newcastle, at one of the city’s long-standing industrial sites. Newcastle Foundries has supplied ferrous and non-ferrous castings for generations, and the environment is defined by heat, gravity, and transformation.
During a visit, Suzanne Curran discovered bronze ‘splashes’ or ‘spill’, small fragments created when molten bronze escapes during pouring and solidifies into irregular forms. These pieces are often treated as discard. In Foundry Collection, they become the starting point.
What is bronze ‘spill’?
Bronze splashes are naturally formed fragments created during casting. They’re shaped by chance, which is why they have the textures and silhouettes you can’t design in a mould.
How the pieces are made
Each fragment is selected for balance and wearability, then refined through sculpting, grinding, smoothing, and finishing. The goal is not to erase the material’s origin, but to make it wearable while keeping its organic foundry character intact.
Why every piece is one-of-a-kind
Because the starting forms are created by chance, there’s no replication. Each piece is a singular object, finished by hand in Australia.
Where to see the work in person
Foundry Collection jewellery is stocked at Newcastle Art Gallery Shop, where you can experience the true texture and weight of the work up close.
FAQs
What is Foundry Collection made from?
Reclaimed bronze ‘splash’ or ‘spill’ fragments formed during industrial casting at Newcastle Foundries (est. 1890).
Why is every piece unique?
Because the starting forms are created by chance during casting, no two fragments begin the same.
Where is Foundry Collection stocked?
Foundry Collection is stocked at Newcastle Art Gallery Shop.