WITH LYNNE SPEAKE & SPAM GLAM

“Precious?” should challenge the boundaries of what contemporary jewellery is and express what the notion of the term “precious” means.

This category is about maker’s connections with their objects, thoughts or the feelings that they create with their work, as well as how they communicate them.

The one restriction given is that all work has to sit on or work with the body. The rest is entirely up to our artist’s processes, materials and concepts.

We want to see the work that people are excited to make. We’re delighted to say that we have been surprised, shocked, confused, challenged, overwhelmed and excited by all of our selected artists and we hope that you will be to.

WITH FAYE HALL

A celebration of innovative work that explores the use and application of a range of materials; from precious to non-precious and all that falls in-between. This category showcases work that encourages viewers to question their own assumptions on materials and how we use them. It also opens up discussions about the huge scope of elements that contemporary jewellery can include and imbue. We will consider all materials: metals, stones, textiles, plastics, organic material…just as long as you can create something harmonious and original.  

Join us for an exploration into unexpected, intriguing and exciting wearable objects that investigate materiality and aesthetic through an inventive approach. 

WITH KATY GILLAM-HULL & LOZ SAMUELS

We only have to scratch the surface of any industry to see an often huge environmental impact as a result of its activity. Jewellery is no exception to this.  As we become increasingly aware of the impact our sector has on the planet, we feel it is crucial to create a space where makers can showcase work that is inspired by the environment, appreciates nature’s beauty and ingenuity or simply demonstrates a more environmentally friendly approach to making. Partnering with Makers Against Extinction, we encourage entrants to explore this topic but ask that they be considerate of the impact their use of materials has. We would also encourage all pieces to be created using a more ethical approach.

Join us for an exploration of work that is provoking conversation, actively confronting the ethics of the jewellery industry and creating a more eco friendly offering for the future.