I have my Grandpa to thank for my love of beachcombing. From a very early age we would walk together along the high tide line, "treasure hunting", as he used to say. We would collect shells, pebbles and all sorts of interesting finds, and spend hours peering into rock pools and the miniature worlds inside. I have also always loved making jewellery - starting with simple beaded designs when I was a young child. As I gradually learnt more complex jewellery-making skills I began to incorporate pieces of sea glass. I love the way sea glass is a beautiful yet sustainable material that has a story to tell after having spent years beneath the waves.

I was very lucky to spend three months learning from a family of silversmiths in the coastal town of Lamu, in Kenya. The town sits on a beautiful estuary, and the ocean theme has most definitely carried through to my designs. Lamu also has a strong Arabic culture, with beautiful patterns carved into the wooden boats and door frames. These intricate patterns were the inspiration behind my logo, which features a swirling pattern surrounding a small glass bottle.

I love using repurposed materials in my jewellery - whether that be pieces of sea glass, broken shards of antique ceramic, or recycled silver. I find these materials more interesting to work with as it means each piece of jewellery is unique and has a story to tell.

I place huge importance on creating jewellery that will last a lifetime, as well as using recycled materials as much as possible. I try to stay away from jewellery 'trends', and create my designs based on timeless inspiration from the natural world.

Two Autumns ago I got to work on such an exciting, and challenging project! A successful artist local to my area (Bruce Munro) came across my work and commissioned me to make 170 sea glass pendants. It was a daunting commission, as making jewellery for Bahari Blu has always been a side project alongside my other full-time work. However, I couldn't say no to the opportunity, and for a few months hid myself away in the evenings and weekends in my little studio space to produce the work. Each piece of sea glass was edged in recycled sterling silver, which Bruce then hung on a huge wooden board, with a small light shining behind each pendant to illuminate the colour of the sea glass. The result was mesmerising, and the artwork has been displayed in galleries in the US and the UK over the last two years.

Through Bahari Blu, Sophie has transformed discarded materials into pieces of art, each one carrying the story of its origins. From her early experiences with sea glass to her time learning from silversmiths in Lamu, Kenya, Sophie’s creative path is as unique as the treasures she uncovers along the shoreline.

Join us every Saturday at 10am at the Fittie end of Aberdeen beach for invigorating dips in the sea. The refreshing waters will not only revitalize your body but also uplift your spirits, offering a perfect blend of mental clarity and physical well-being.

For updates on volunteering at beach cleans, joining adventure days, and other upcoming events please see our social media pages.