About May Hofman
Our story
Rosie May Hofman has always been drawn to take a closer look - from the necklace around her Mother’s neck to her Grandparents’ silver ornaments. Through an enriched childhood spent in rural Gloucestershire; building dens, collecting shells, leaf skeletons, and seed-cases; a love for all things small, beautiful, and intricate grew.
Rosie studied HND Jewellery Design and Silversmithing & BA Design For Industry at Birmingham School of Jewellery and her work has been recognized for multiple awards and achievements.
After many years in Stroud Rosie has relocated to Derbyshire to follow her family dreams for a simple living. From her home workshop, Rosie designs each component in her collections through sketching and traditional craftsmanship, alongside modern techniques such as 3D design and casting. Blending the two allows Rosie to play with possibilities and add intricate detail, capturing an ancient yet modern quality in each piece. Originally inspired by the mechanics of nature, the designs have evolved into geometric and playful creations taking onboard a tapestry of influences. Using an infusion of gold and oxidized silver alongside tactile components the signature mechanical style is achieved.
She sees the almost instinctive need for expression through metal taps into deep-seated human desires of connection and understanding. There is so much that we can learn about our ancient ancestors from what they left behind - and equally, the jewellery we have today will go on to tell stories about our lives, once we are gone.
Today’s overarching story is the environment: what we are doing to protect our ecosystems and resources to ensure that our race will live on. That fact hit Rosie hard and sustainability has become a duty and a necessity, not a nice-to-have. Her daily mission is to channel eco-anxiety and environmental fears into May Hofman - to make it a positive force for change and inspiration.
Awards and Qualifications
British Made Awards 2021 by SNE News - Best unisex jewellery designer
British Made Awards 2021 by SNE News - Excellence award for sustainability initiatives
HND in Jewellery Design and Silversmithing at Birmingham School of Jewellery 2008-2009