Click here to go to the Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council website for more information.
Click here to go to the Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council website for more information.
The Worshipful Company of Gold & Silver Wyre Drawers trace their origins to medieval times and to the ancient trade of making the gold and silver wire used in embroidery, notably of uniforms and ceremonial costumes. While the craft has declined over the centuries, it is still practised by some of the finest embroiderers and artisans. The Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers are particularly keen to maintain their links with the trade and to support young crafts people working in gold and silver wire.
Over the course of the last 18 months, under Rodney Brody's chairmanship, a focus group has been looking at ways in which the GSWD could regain firmer ties with our trade and the use of gold and silver wire.
In 2012, in conjunction with the Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council, which promotes excellence in the gold and silver trades, the Company has sponsored one of the major awards in the fine jewellery section.
Early in February, Liverymen Liz Elvin and Jean Scott-Moncrieff represented the GSWD in judging the entries for our prize. We were guided by our fellow judges - all industry professionals - and although there were some entries that did not meet the criteria, we were unanimous in choosing a winning piece. The judges felt that the winning piece fulfilled the brief to incorporate the innovative use of wires in a piece of production jewellery. The piece is an exciting index-finger ring made in silver and gold set with small gemstones.
On Monday 5th March, there was a preview of the exhibition of all the prizewinning entries held in the magnificent surroundings of Goldsmiths' Hall. The Master, Rodney Brody, The Clerk, Cdr Robin House, Past Master, Ken Blundell and Liverymen Liz Elvin and Jean Scott-Moncrieff were greeted by members of the GC&DC and the Prime Warden of the Goldsmiths' Company and seated in the front row to watch the prizegiving ceremony.
L. to R. - Jean Scott-Moncrieff, The Master, Elizaveta Gnatchenko, The Clerk and Liz Elvin
Each section of the competition was presented on a large screen with pictures of the winning pieces as the prizewinners were called up to the stage, and when our winner, Elizaveta Gnatchenko was called, The Master went up to present her with our prize. Afterwards, The Master and other members of the Livery congratulated Elizaveta, who was clearly delighted. She explained her educational background: she is a recent graduate from Central St Martin's and is now on the Getting Started scheme run by the Goldsmiths' Company. She has had her work featured in various magazines including Vogue and has agreed to be the Company's guest at The Master's Dinner at Skinner's Hall in April.
Click here for more photographs of the event.