Goldsmiths’ Fair, the leading showcase for the UK’s foremost silversmiths and makers of contemporary jewellery, invites applications for its 40th anniversary year. Taking place in the magnificent surrounds of Goldsmiths’ Hall in the City of London from 27 September to 9 October 2022, the Fair provides a selling platform for over 130 exhibitors, presenting their work to an audience of collectors and design lovers.
Applications are invited until 28 February after which the Fair’s selection panel will review and invite to exhibit those whose craft and design innovation set them apart as one of the best fine jewellers or contemporary silversmiths creating and making in the UK today. Goldsmiths’ Fair is non-profit and is supported by the Goldsmiths’ Company, making it an affordable platform for both established and aspiring new designers to present their work to a global audience.
Many of the UK’s most collectable jewellers have shown their work at Goldsmiths’ Fair over the years. They include Rod Kelly, Charlotte de Syllas, Alan Craxford, Ane Christensen, Susan Cross, Zoe Arnold, Andrew Lamb, Shaun Leane, Ndidi Ekubia, Fred Rich, Catherine Martin, Jo Hayes Ward, Tomasz Donocik, Hannah Martin, and Adi Toch amongst others.
Fair Ambassador, Cassandra Goad, says: “Goldsmiths’ Fair is an essential date in my diary where I go to see the finest British talent and emerging trends. It consistently champions the most exciting designers, those who are pushing the boundaries of possibility and others who are reviving and upholding centuries old skills and techniques. For any independent jewellery designer, Goldsmiths’ Fair is where they should aspire to exhibit.”
Applicants for Goldsmiths’ Fair must be UK based, professional, independent jewellers or silversmiths employing six people or fewer at the bench. All work must contain precious metals and be designed and made in the UK. Applicants will be independently assessed by members of the Selection Panel, who will be looking for original and authentic work, technical and hand-made skills, a cohesive collection and ambition. The panel comprises: Rajesh Gogna (Chair of Contemporary Silversmiths); Charu Ghandi (interior designer and founder of Elicyon); Joanna Hardy (author and fine jewellery specialist); Alan Hughes (principal, The Inchbald School of Design); Christina Jansen (managing director, The Scottish Gallery); Liz Olver (Annoushka, Vashi); Daniella Wells (Collect); and The Goldsmiths’ Centre programme manager, Charlotte Dew.
Postgraduate student applicants are also invited with 10 fully underwritten stands available to the next generation of design talent through the Graduate Bursary Scheme. Successful graduates will benefit from a complimentary stand, a £1,500 grant, £3,000 interest free silver bullion loan along with professional training and mentoring from The Goldsmiths’ Centre.
Fair Director, Harriet Scott, adds: “2022 is a very special year for Goldsmiths’ Fair. For 40 years we have celebrated the talent of the UK’s leading silversmiths and contemporary jewellers who have gone onto enjoy international renown. We make it our mission to discover the very best independent design talent and to showcase their work to new audiences and collectors.”
For further information and the online application form visit goldsmithsfair.co.uk
