I’m normally one to meet deadlines with time to spare… for instance, all my Craftwork Card samples are always delivered in time for the shows on Create & Craft.

This project was started in my final term at college, some two years ago now. It was part of my geometric constructions for lanterns (featured here), and I made a wireframe cage based on the same shape. The idea was to then grow salt crystals over the wire frame and photograph it as part of my final major project. As anyone who has tried growing crystals knows, it takes time – and in this case, the piece didn’t finish ‘growing’ until 6 months later, well after I’d finished my extended diploma. Since then, it’s languished in its protective bucket on a shelf in my studio waiting to be photographed. Prompted by a need for more space, I got the camera out late last night and took the photos. I think it was worth the wait…

I love how the wireframe has rusted and coloured the crystals; the different facets; the scattered light; and the interplay between light and shade. It’s a shame that it’s so fragile as it would be great to keep as a night light. As I come to throw it away, it strikes me that there’s one more step to go – watching it dissolve again. Who knows – may be the stronger crystals will keep an appeal?