The Prìne Series
Prìne | Scottish Gaelic
pin
Historically, pins were used across Iron Age Highland communities to secure garments and symbolise identity.
The Prìne Series reinterprets this lineage through Ellis’ lens. Each of the five pieces are inspired by ancient pin-like forms found on her own land, with shapes reimagined through her signature hand-carved textures and embedded diamonds.
The series explores two distinct archetypes: two pins are abstracted forms of crook-headed Iron Age fastenings, while a further three fixed circular pins are a contemporary take on ancient ring-headed shapes and symbols of continuity.
More than decorative objects, these pieces draw upon centuries of craft and memory. Through their material presence and historical references, they speak to a Scotland where function and meaning remain inseparable and where even modest objects carry significance.
Diamonds are scattered across the surface of each pin head with purpose, flowing over their contours.
The stones are positioned to catch light from every angle; drifting into recessed or hidden areas that might otherwise be overlooked. This dissolves any fixed sense of front or back, allowing the object to read as a continuous sculptural form that shifts with movement.
Designed as both a wearable fastening and decorative adornment, each pin is an expression of cultural identity and heritage.