Unique designs
Badger is the creative persona of Bill Shortis, a largely self-taught jeweller based at Workspace Studios in Ōtaki, Aotearoa New Zealand.
Bill likes to experiment with different materials and techniques so that no two pieces are ever the same. He endeavours to use recycled materials where possible.
Born in England but raised in Aotearoa New Zealand he has come to respect the rich culture of the indigenous Māori people and believes their designs are their cultural property. He draws instead on his own Celtic and Viking ancestral motifs.
Why Badger?
The badger is Bill’s personal spirit animal.
“I’ve always felt an affinity for badgers.
My favourite book is Wind in the Willows, which I first read as a child and re-read from time to time even now. I was always drawn to the character of Badger.
Badgers are, by nature, quiet ramblers who do not seek out company but ask only to be allowed to go about their business in peace - maybe jewellers are much the same.”
