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Jewellery: Mixed Media

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Business: Marketing & Social Media

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Knowle West Media Centre Artists Commission

Artists Commission: Knowle West Media Centre, Bristol Call for Artists, Makers and Designers - mobile “Future Home” stucture for Knowle West Media Centre, Bristol. Knowle West Media Centre (KWMC) is seeking to commission an artist, maker or designer to create an engaging mobile structure where people can experience the home of the future. The Future Home will: navigate the streets of Bristol, popping up at community events and festivals pique people’s curiosity and delight the senses inform and inspire people about emerging tech and eco, from solar panels to smart appliances Artists Brief For full brief and more information on how

Weston Beamor increases presence on Social Media

Over the past ten months, Weston Beamor, the Birmingham casting house, 3D printing and bespoke manufacturing company, has made a concerted effort to extend its reach across various forms of digital media. The results have been extremely encouraging, as evidenced by the significant increase in their followers on numerous social media platforms. Since June 2016 Victoria Maher, a Customer Service Administrator at Weston Beamor, has been managing the company’s social media channels in addition to her day-to-day role. Maher has sought to kick-start the company’s online presence by distributing posts covering a diverse array of topics, including bespoke jewellery, castings,

Media to catch up on whilst in lockdown

We’ve compiled a list of catch up TV, radio and podcasts which you might find useful to while away the hours whilst on lockdown. TV BBC - Handmade https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b05ttnd7/broadcasts/upcoming Episode 1 Filmed without voiceover or music, this film is an absorbing portrait of the complex processes behind the crafting of a steel knife by bladesmith Owen Bush. BBC - Secrets of the Museum Unique arts series venturing behind the scenes at the world famous museum of art, design and performance, the V&A. www.bbc.co.uk Episodes containing jewellery: Episode 6 Behind the scenes at the V&A, transporting a unique car is a

Media Stars Set to Select Bright Young Gems

An eminent panel of consumer media experts, together with the British luxury fine jewellery designer, Shaun Leane, are set to select IJL’s 2017 Bright Young Gems - the five young jewellers chosen to be the industry's next stars. Alice Edwards, Jewellery Editor for Sunday Times Style and The Times LUXX magazine, and Charlie Boyd, Executive Fashion and Jewellery Editor at both Harper's Bazaar and Town & Country, have been appointed to the panel of judges for the 2017 Bright Young Gems selection panel. They join Hilary Alexander OBE, Editor-at-Large Hello Fashion Monthly; Annabel Davidson, Editor of Vanity Fair on Jewellery,

Brilliant social media wins Alice Barnes 2017 Industry's Choice Award

Alice Barnes built up a formidable following on social media for her unique paper art jewellery to win the IJL 2017 KickStart ‘Industry’s Choice Award’, beating nine other contenders for the prestigious prize of a complimentary stand in the Design Gallery in 2018. The ten KickStarters went into battle over the summer to win as many votes as possible from the public via social media and an online poll, with the prize awarded at the discretion of the IJL and The National Association of Jewellers.  Showing initiative and enterprise in her use of social media and email marketing, Alice gained

Part Time Social Media & Marketing Assistant, E.C. One - Clerkenwell, London

The Role Part Time Social Media & Marketing Assistant, E.C One the Jewellers (4 Days a week) E.C. One is the award winning jewellers based in Clerkenwell, London who are renowned for offering both designer and precious fine jewellery. Voted as ‘The Most Inspiring Jewellers in the UK’ as well as ‘Best for Fashion’ , and ‘Best Boutique Jewellers’ . We are currently looking for a Part Time Social Media & Marketing Assistant to join our happy team. The Role The ideal candidate will work closely with our Website Manager to create engaging content for the company's social media presence. This

Mixed-media Jewellery: Methods and Techniques (Design and Make)

Stitch, Fibres, Metal & Mixed Media (The Textile Artist)

Picture Perfect Social Media: A Handbook for Styling Perfect Photos for Posting, Blogging, and Sharing

Jeweler's Studio Handbook: Traditional and Contemporary Techniques for Working With Metal Wire Jems and Mixed Media Materials: Traditional and ... for Working with Metal, Wire, Gems, and Mixed

Are you making the most out of social media for your business? You could earn twice as much on the average order through Pinterest, over Facebook, new study suggests

Marketing yourself and your business can be tricky, and time consuming. The truth is no one knows your audience like you. However, if you're looking for new ways to shake up your strategy, a new study by Nosto may shed some light on new avenues for success.  The study uncovers the true value of Pinterest and Instagram, showing that whilst they may not provide volume in term of traffic (compared to the liked of Facebook), they might encourage customers to spend more per order. While they drive relatively small amounts of traffic, Pinterest and Instagram deliver the highest average order values

Jessica Green

Meet Benchpeg's Social Media Manager. She heads up brand and strategy for our social channels.   Jessica Green Social Media Manager Jessica had been with Benchpeg for over a year now, and her understanding and comprehension of the brand and its raison d'être is second to none. Jess heads up our strategic brand planning and social media strategy. She is a third year Media and Communications student, and has a background in the Luxury Auto Industry. Jess is also the Funder / Editor of Gaming by Proxy, a blog for game appreciation: www.gamingbyproxy.com   Meet the rest of the team here . If you'd

Rural Business Awards 2017

Call for Applications: All rurally-based creators, designers and media experts Rural Business Awards 2017 Rurally-based creative and media companies from across Britain are being invited to get their entries in for an awards scheme designed specifically for the countryside sector. Now in their third year, the Rural Business Awards (RBAs) are the only UK-wide business awards for rural enterprises. They are sponsored by Janine Edwards Wealth Management Ltd, Principal Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management, and operate in partnership with the CLA. The RBAs are split into 13 categories including Best Rural Creative or Media based Business – along

Graduate Show University of Brighton 2017

MDes and BA Hons 3D Design and Craft Graduate Show University of Brighton The University of Brighton’s annual Graduate Show is when their talented graduating students in the arts, design, architecture and media stage their final-year shows. Our courses cover a range of disciplines and on show will be work from the following subject areas: architecture and interior architecture, fashion and textiles, film, fine art, photography, graphics and and illustration, design, craft, media, history of art and design. Meet the Makers on Sunday 4th June Graduating students from the 3D Design & Craft course will be presenting the processes used to

LFW Limelight: Ejing Zhang SS17 Collection

Born and raised in China, Ejing Zhang's exposure to fabrics and thread came at a very young age, as her Mother worked in the textile industry. Zhang's love of fabrics and fashion continued to grow with her and resulted in an education and passionate career in the creative industry. Ejing Zhang graduated from the Royal College of Art with a MA in Mixed Media Textiles. Through the combination of textiles and resin, Ejing Zhang Studio creates intricate jewellery by highlighting a cross section of the mixed media resin tile, revealing its abstract and detailed core. All the tiles are hand

The Fashion Awards 2016 Nominees

On Tuesday 25th October 2016 Dame Natalie Massenet, Chairman of the British Fashion Council (BFC) announced the nominations for The Fashion Awards 2016, alongside Karlie Kloss, Ambassador for the event’s lead partner Swarovski and Caroline Rush, BFC CEO.  The announcement took place during a brunch, at Soho House West Hollywood in LA, attended by media, stylists, talent managers, retailers and friends of the BFC. The Awards nominations were simultaneously revealed at a screening at the Mondrian London and digitally via a private URL to influential international media and retailers. Earlier in the year, 1500 key members of the fashion industry

Kate Laven

Meet Benchpeg's Contributing Writer Kate Laven. She makes up part of the team that bring the Benchpeg website, newsletter and social media feeds to our lovely readers, subscribers and followers   Kate Laven Contributing Writer Kate is a journalist with over 20 years’ extensive experience and has written for an expansive range of titles including the Daily Telegraph, The Sunday Telegraph, the BBC and the Daily Express as well as being a contributing writer for The Times, The Sunday Times and the Guardian. Kate brings her background in  corporate communications, PR, marketing, blogging and media consultancy  to Benchpeg. Kate maintains

News Edit: 14 October 2018

A round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Alex Monroe has designed a stunning capsule jewellery collection for Doctor Who The Brag: To celebrate the release of the BBC’s highly anticipated new series of Doctor Who. Jewellery designer Alex Monroe has created a gorgeous capsule collection. thebrag.com Why one jewellery brand thinks offline media ‘no longer makes sense’ Marketing Week: German jewellery and watch retailer Thomas Sabo is increasingly shifting its spend from magazine placements to media that is “easier to measure”. www.marketingweek.com Irish tourist ends up in hospital after ‘swallowing £30k diamond ring he stole from jewellers’

VIA Arts Prize

Call for Application: VIA Arts Prize The Visual Ibero-American Arts Prize is dedicated to supporting UK-based artists of any nationality in the production of cross-cultural artworks, giving them the incentive to develop their creative ideas, based on a theme, and contributing to their personal and professional growth. It also encourages them to engage with and take inspiration from Ibero-American art and cultures, through a process of intercultural exchange. It will be an opportunity for the artists to exhibit their work at a prestigious and highly visible space in the heart of London and to have their profile raised through media

Appointment: David Beckham Appointed Ambassadorial President, British Fashion Council

The British Fashion Council (BFC) is delighted to announce the appointment of David Beckham OBE, in a newly created role of Ambassadorial President. The global role will have an initial two-year tenure and will support the organisation in its goal to build networks and partnerships in the United States and Asia. David will partner closely with the BFC team to help the BFC boost support for the British fashion industry on a global scale – raising the profile of emerging British fashion talent with the global investment and media communities alike. Taking on this new role is an incredibly proud

'Spoon' Exhibition, Unit Twelve - Stafford

This Christmas selling exhibition will showcase a varied array of beautiful artist made spoons made from a large variety of materials such as wood, ceramic, glass, wire, silver, metal, enamel and even found objects and mixed media. Dates: 29th September - 17th December 2016 Venue: Unit Twelve, Tixall Heath Farm, Stafford, ST18 0XX www.unittwelve.co.uk

Branching Out

Branching Out, Craft Centre and Design Gallery - Leeds Inspired by the beauty of trees we bring together a selection of talented makers creating contemporary jewellery, ceramics, glass and works in mixed media whose work captures the essence of these remarkably diverse and beautiful marvels of the natural world. Exhibition Run 18th March - 24th June 2017 Venue The Craft Centre & Design Gallery City Art Gallery The Headrow, Leeds West Yorkshire LS1 3AB www.craftcentreleeds.co.uk

Experimental Casting Course, Cockpit Arts - Holborn, London

During this course you will explore and experiment with different casting processes and use them in an unconventional way. Traditional techniques like sand, water, ice and cuttlefish casting will be taught and used as the starting point of your creative journey. Through casting into different media, you will be encouraged to ‘cast outside the box’ and take the process literally outside the studio, to cast into gaps, cracks and other items in the street. We will be using different metals such as pewter, silver and bismuth. You will explore the possibilities of the different techniques and metals and find out

Hereford College of Arts

Hereford College of Arts  is a dedicated arts college with a specialist focus on art, media, design, popular music and performing arts. We offer eleven undergraduate degrees alongside a range of pre-degree and short course programmes for students of all ages from twelve.  Undergraduate: Jewellery Design - BA (Hons) www.hca.ac.uk Vocational course: Top - Up Jewellery Design – BA (Hons) For students who have completed a HND or Foundation Course www.hca.ac.uk

Serpenti Metamorphosis by Refik Anadol

Serpenti Metamorphosis   by Refik Anadol Gallery 3, Saatchi Gallery, London 25th November - 23rd December 2022 Bulgari embarks on a new chapter with award-winning media artist and director Refik Anadol. After last year’s success with their exhibition and digital experience in Piazza del Duomo in Milan, it is London’s chance to celebrate the second chapter of  Serpenti Metamorphosis. From November 25th to December 23rd, Bulgari will present an immersive experience with Refik Anadol’s artwork representing its most famous icon, Serpenti, within the world-renowned Saatchi Gallery in Chelsea, London, for the first time ever. It will be the

Call for Applications: Digital Craft Festival at Christmas

Call for Applications: Digital Craft Festival at Christmas Applications are open for the Digital Craft Festival at Christmas. Craft Festival hosts multiple prestigious craft events in South West England presenting some of the UK’s finest makers. It one of Europe’s largest and most loved craft events. To reflect the global opportunity that hosting a Digital Craft Festival allows, applications are open from makers from across the globe.   You will be working to the highest standards in ceramics, glass, textiles, jewellery, metal, wood, plastics, mixed media, leather, recycled materials and paper. No paintings, photography or musical instruments. Greetings cards are only accepted

News Edit: 28 March 2021

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   1970s model, muse and jewellery designer, Elsa Peretti, dies aged 80 Tatler: The Florentine jewellery designer who helmed Tiffany & Co was a regular on the New York social scene at Studio 54 alongside Halston, Andy Warhol and Liza Minnelli. www.tatler.com Why an artist is turning pandemic waste into jewellery Live Mint: Argentina's Marcelo Toledo is collecting recycled covid-19 waste, including masks and syringes, to make accessories and sculptures. livemint.com Jewellery Distributor On The Move Insider Media: A Cambridgeshire-based jewellery service distributor has acquired new premises after reporting

Craft Festival Bovey Tracey 11 - 9 June 2023

Call For Entries: Craft Festival Bovey Tracey 11-9 June 2023 Craft Festival Bovey Tracey is one of the finest craft retail events in Europe, set in idyllic parkland on the edge of Dartmoor, Devon. Celebrating its 19th Anniversary in 2023, Bovey Tracey offers makers an exceptional opportunity to sell their work to a highly discerning and knowledgeable audience. Applications are invited from makers working to the highest standards. You make ceramics, glass, textiles, jewellery, metal, wood, plastics, mixed media, leather, recycled materials, printmaking and paper. Your work shows a dedication to quality of making, presentation and originality. You are based

Arts Council Culture Recovery Fund Grant

Arts Council Culture Recovery Fund Grant The Arts Council has published guidance for the Culture Recovery Fund: Grants programme. This fund forms part of the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport’s (DCMS) wider Culture Recovery Fund of £1.57 billion, set up to protect the UK’s culture and heritage sectors from the economic impacts of Covid-19. Grants from between £50,000 to £3 million will be available. Eligibity - Cultural organisations (both profit and not for profit) based in England that are properly constituted and are registered at Companies House and/or Charity Commission, and are able to produce at least one year’s

CLOSING SOON! Apply for StartUP at Craft Festival, Bovey Tracey

CLOSING SOON! Apply for  StartUP at Craft Festival, Bovey Tracey A dedicated pavilion at Craft Festival Bovey Tracey for makers who have been in business for 2 years or less (started trading since January 2020). Our aim is to support fledgling careers and to encourage and promote the latest creative talent. Stands in the  StartUP  section are offered at a much reduced rate to Craft Festival's stands and create an outstanding opportunity for businesses of two year or less. You make ceramics, glass, textiles, jewellery, metal, wood, plastics, mixed media, leather, recycled materials, printmaking and paper. You are resident anywhere

Silversmith apprenticeship / studio assistant position wanted

Silversmith apprenticeship / studio assistant position wanted I am looking for an apprenticeship or studio assistant position to further develop my silversmithing skills, preferably within the Greater London area, but willing to relocate. I know the traditional goldsmithing and silversmithing techniques as soldering, chasing, sinking, raising, repoussé, casting, filigree, enamel, etc.; as well as modern production techniques - 3D modelling (Rhino3D) and 3D scanning (123DCatch).  Besides my craft related skills, I have several years of experience creating and maintaining websites (WordPress), carrying out administrative tasks, creating content for social media platforms and designing booklets. I have a great regard for

Benchpeg turns 15 in Lockdown

We’ve been so busy that we forgot that we recently should have celebrated our birthday! It is very hard to believe, for us, that we turned 15 at the beginning of this month. 15 years ago, when ecommerce was very limited, websites were non-responsive and social media hadn’t really got started in the way that we know it nowadays, we created Benchpeg to help democratise information for the sector and get it to those that needed the information most – micro and SME businesses within the jewellery industry. We’re extremely proud that we were the first digital newsletter in the

Adur & Worthing Trust Creative Commissions

Call for Applications:  The Adur & Worthing Trust Creative Commissions The Adur & Worthing Trust Creative Commissions are offering grants of  £300 – £700  to produce a new piece of work in any artform – visual arts, performance, music, film, photography, dance, digital, literature, craft and more – plus accompanying documentation (such as photographs, film, text or a combination of different media) that must be submitted at the end of the project. Your Commission must take place in Adur or Worthing, and must be completed by the end of January 2022. SWAG Award One additional commission this year will be

Camden Pop-Up Business School - Small Business Resilience course

Camden Pop-Up Business School - Small Business Resilience course We’ve partnered with the popular PopUp Business School to help business in Camden become more resilient and build their online presence, if you’re a Camden business who would like to access the free training – sign up today. Day 1 - Hose to make your business resilience (AM) and Protecting your business (PM) Day 2 - Building your online presence (AM) and How to win at social media (PM) Day 3 - The sales mindset (AM) and Find supporters, Not Customers (PM) To view the overview of the training programme,  click

Digital NAJ Live

The NAJ has now revealed plans on how it plans to continue with its successful lockdown webinars and coffee breaks through a revised monthly ‘NAJ Live’ format. Sarah Duncan from Chiswick Auctions who previously presented one of the most popular ‘lockdown’ seminars on ‘Sentimental Jewellery’ is announced as a keynote speaker alongside Alex Kettler, Head of Media at Richard Winterton Auctioneers for the very first digital NAJ Live. The digital NAJ Live format will include three webinar presentations, with Helen Dimmick NAJ Retail Ambassador hosting proceedings. After the webinar sessions have closed, attendees will then have the opportunity to join

Secretary and Trustees, Heritage Crafts Association

Call for Applications: Secretary and Trustees, Heritage Crafts Association The Heritage Crafts Association (HCA) is the only UK-wide organisation set up to safeguard and promote the full breadth of traditional craft skills. We are looking for a Secretary and additional Trustees to join our passionate Board. The successful candidates will be: EITHER Professional craftspeople engaged with the issues affecting their craft and heritage crafts in general. AND/OR Those who support our remit and have professional experience specifically in: Public relations and media Membership schemes Digital marketing Organisational change Charity governance Previous experience of being a Trustee is not compulsory. Trustees

BBA Artist Prize 2021

BBA Artist Prize 2021 Who can apply International call, open to all media, all ages over 18, all genders and all educational backgrounds. ‘Early bird’ application phase 1 15 November 2020 - 17 January 2021 (midnight CET) Out of all applications we receive during phase 1, we will select 10 artists for the longlist. Apply early and secure one of the first positions on the longlist! You will be notified until January 30th and we will already start promoting you in February 2021. 1st Prize Solo show at BBA Gallery in 2022 Cash prize 1000 € Artsy profile BBA Gallery

Desire Fair, Chelsea Old Town Hall 2023

Call for Applications: Desire Fair, Chelsea Old Town Hall 2023 10 -12 March 2023 Craft in Focus are now inviting applications for our 2023 Desire Jewellery & Silversmithing Fair taking place at Chelsea Old Town Hall. Applications are invited from silversmiths and jewellers working in any media. Early application is advised.  Click here to download the application pack .  The deadline for applications is  Monday 21 November Cabinets are available to hire at this event.  Click here for images . Further details will be advised to exhibitors in due course. This will be the sixteenth year of Desire in London

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair & GNCCFonline 2021

Call for Applications: Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair Manchester 8-10 October 2021 GNCCFonline Summer Edition: 17-18 July 2021 We invite applications from established, new and recent graduate designers-makers and artists working in ceramics, glass, jewellery, metal, wood, interior textiles, fashion design & accessories, mixed media, basket-making, product design, furniture, print-making and more. We are also looking for established makers who are experimenting with new techniques or materials towards a new body of work, to apply for the “Discuss” showcase at GNCCF Manchester. “Discuss” is an opportunity for makers to engage the GNCCF audience in their new work in progress, to

Experts share insight on non-essential retail shops reopening and provide reassurance on how to shop safely

This week, all non-essential retail shops re-opened after 12 weeks of closure since the COVID-19 outbreak. Hundreds of thousands of non-essential retail shops across England are set to reopen including Shopping centres and shops will look and operate differently compared to three months ago, when the public were last shopping in them.  To inform the public on what to expect and showcase the new changes that have been implemented, shopping expert and TV star Gok Wan along with media doctor Dr Zoe Williams were granted early access to some stores on London’s iconic Oxford Street to find out more before they

Trustee Vacancy

Trustee, Heritage Crafts Association We are seeking a Trustee who has the strategic vision to enable us to grow as an organisation and to help us to deliver projects which meet our strategic aims, including greater recognition for heritage craftspeople and better access to craft education and training. We are particularly looking for Trustees skilled in any of the following areas and with an enthusiasm to bring these skills to bear for the benefit of the organisation: Human resources Charity law Public relations / media liaison Research (academic or commercial) Campaigning Practising craftspeople However we will also consider applications from

Scott McIntyre, of Vanilla Ink, releases new stone setting manual

We love seeing those in our community flourish and share our vision of making jewellery knowlege accessible. Scott McIntyre, master goldsmith and recognised face of Vanilla Ink Studios has recently published a stone setting manual that will educate and inspire generations of jewellers to come. Scott's passion for creating beautiful jewellery is matched only by his passion for passing on his skills and expertise. Through Vanilla Ink's unique jewellery classes, as well as social media, Scott makes it his mission to inform and entertain the wonderful jewellery community. Now in the permanance of a book, Scott's mastery is enshrined.  Image

Craft Festival Bovey Tracey & Cheltenham 2022

Call For Entries: Craft Festival Bovey Tracey & Cheltenham 2022 Craft Festival Bovey Tracey 17-19 June 2022 Craft Festival Cheltenham 11-13 March 2022 Applications are invited from makers working to the highest standards. 2 Great Events, 1 Application Form You make ceramics, glass, textiles, jewellery, metal, wood, plastics, mixed media, leather, recycled materials, printmaking and paper. Your work shows a dedication to quality of making, presentation and originality. You are based anywhere in the world. You can apply for both Craft Festival Bovey Tracey & Cheltenham on the same application form. Applications for our Christmas Festival in Cheltenham will open in

Spring Digital Craft Festival

Call for Applications: Spring Digital Craft Festival Craft Festival is  delighted to announce applications are now open for our Spring Digital Craft Festival.  This online event will represent the finest makers working in ceramics, glass, textiles, jewellery, metal, wood, plastics, mixed media, leather, recycled materials, printmaking and paper to the highest standard.  Open to makers in the UK and Internationally. The Digital Craft Festival is part of a portfolio of events presented by the team behind Craft Festivals in Bovey Tracey, Cheltenham and Bath.  Our festivals have become some of the largest, friendliest and most prestigious craft events in the

The 2023 Goldsmiths’ Craftsmanship & Design Awards

Held at Goldsmiths’ Hall in London, the annual Awards Ceremony was opened by the Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council’s chair, Anne-Marie Reeves, and hosted by Council Trustees Maeve Gillies and Judith Lockwood, who together announced this year’s award winners. The event welcomed more than 300 guests, including representatives from world-renowned jewellery houses, notable sponsors, industry associations, leading designers, and the UK media.  The Awards presentation was live-streamed which doubled the immediate audience. In her opening remarks, Anne-Marie Reeves told guests and award winners: “ Congratulations to all the winners and especially those who were honoured with special awards. This is

News Edit: 18 December 2022

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Bentley goes for gold in 3D printing PES Media: Bentley Motors has introduced 3D printed solid gold in the exclusive Mulliner Batur – the first time such a ground-breaking process is believed to have been used in the automotive industry. www.pesmedia.com A Luminous Triumph: How Regional Jewellery Brand Sheen Is Ushering In A New Era Harpers Bazaar: With the Luma collection, Saudi-born, Dubai-based designer Nosheen Bakhsh celebrates emerging from the Covid-pandemic slumber with an ebullient fête of gems and 18-karat gold. www.harpersbazaararabia.com Legend of Diamonds: President And CEO

Insta hashtags prompt sales in lockdown

The artist Matthew Burrows set up an artist-led movement and network on 16th March 2020 to support artists struggling financially during Covid-19 using the social media platform Instagram – with a simple pledge. The pledge #artistsupportpledge created a much needed route to market in lockdown for artists and makers. He released a statement saying that within a month “…from making the first sales pledge I am a little awe struck yet completely delighted by the momentum and viral take up of this campaign. It is not just an important network and survival mechanism for artists: It has become a global Hear

Classic Blue 19-4052: Pantone Colour of the Year 2020

For over 20 years, Pantone's Colour of the Year has influenced the design and buying decisions acorss several indsutries, including industrial design, interior furnishings, fashion and graphic design to name a few.  Pantone colour experts comb the world looking for new influences, including fashion and travel destinations, new technologies, textures, socio-economic conditions and social media trends that are capturing the world's attention. From these seasonal trend forecasts, Pantone forecast global colour movements to help advise companies on the modern best practise of brand visual identity. This annual colour psychology and colour consulting gives global brands the power to expedite their

#UnityInIsolation - A Virtual Exhibition - Needs You!

It was announced yesterday that the UK’s lockdown period is to be extended for a further three weeks. Whilst this undoubtedly comes as a disappointing blow to many, we all understand why it is necessary. However, small glimmers of prosperity are lighting the way through the mundanity of staying home, like small green shoots growing through cracks in concrete. For many, its been a time of renewed creativity and sense of community. The project we introduce you to today is at the cornerstone of both. Like it or loathe it, social media has been instrumental in connecting us whilst we cannot

Made By Hand The Contemporary Craft Fair 2019 Cardiff

Call for Applications: Made By Hand, The Contemporary Craft Fair City Hall, Cardiff 1 - 3 November 2019 Applications are invited from makers from across the UK and Ireland to the finest and largest contemporary craft fair in Wales.  You work to the highest standards making ceramics, glass, textiles, jewellery, metal, wood, plastics, mixed media, leather, recycled materials, printmaking and paper.  You are resident in the UK or Ireland and your work shows a dedication to quality of making, presentation and originality. To Apply Click Here to Apply for Made by Hand, Cardiff StartUP Applications Made by Hand will include

The Contemporary Craft Festival 2020

Final Call for Applications: The Contemporary Craft Festival 2020 Bovey Tracey, Devon 12 – 14 June 2020 The Contemporary Craft Festival is one of the UK’s largest and most loved craft events, which sees 200 diverse and talented makers of contemporary craft selling directly to up to 10,000 members of the public. The Festival includes Start UP, a specially designed area for businesses in the early stages of their career. Open to makers from across the UK and Ireland working to the highest standards in ceramics, glass, textiles, jewellery, metal, wood, plastics, mixed media, leather, recycled materials and paper. No paintings,

Desire 2019

Call for Applications: Desire 2019 - London & Winchester Desire are now inviting applications for their 2019 Desire Jewellery & Silversmithing Fairs in London and Winchester. Applications are invited from silversmiths and jewellers working in any media. Demand for spaces is expected to be extremely high so early application is advised with the main selection being made in September. Cabinets are available to hire at these events. Desire London 8 - 10 March 2019 This will be the thirteenth year of Desire in London and will be returning to Chelsea Old Town Hall (after relocating to Kensington temporarily in 2018)

Jewellery & Metal Finalists of the Lowe Craft Prize

Loewe has revealed the names of the 29 shortlisted craftsmen for the 2019 edition of the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize. Each finalist’s work will be exhibited at Isamu Noguchi’s indoor stone garden ‘Heaven’ at the Sogetsu Kaikan in Tokyo, from 26 June to 22 July, 2019 writes Ilaria Ruggiero. The third edition of the Loewe Foundation Craft Prize presents a diverse spectrum of techniques, media and modes of expression and the finalists range from recently graduated and newly emerging artists to well-known names and leaders in their fields. The Loewe Foundation Craft Prize 2019 recognises the shortlisted artists as having

Appointment: Monika Kamycka Appointed as Chair Of British Society of Enamellers

Jewellery designer and Mona Pink founder, Monika Kamycka, has been appointed as Chair of The British Society of Enamellers’ at the trade organisation’s Annual General Meeting, by unanimous vote following her successful year as Vice-Chair. Under Monika’s leadership the trade organisation has realised a number of notable achievements including an innovative and successful online exhibition, a full review of membership benefits, evaluation of website and social media platforms with renewed focus on member and follower engagement, improvements in terms and conditions – both online and offline, digitisation of the organisation’s finances, membership database review (with a view to digitise fully

The Contemporary Craft Festival 2019

Call for Applications: The Contemporary Craft Festival 2019 The Contemporary Craft Festival is one of the UK’s largest and most loved craft events, which sees 200 diverse and talented makers of contemporary craft selling directly to up to 10,000 members of the public. The Festival includes Start UP, a specially designed area for businesses in the early stages of their career. Open to makers from across the UK and Ireland working to the highest standards in ceramics, glass, textiles, jewellery, metal, wood, plastics, mixed media, leather, recycled materials and paper. No paintings, photography or musical instruments. Greetings cards are only accepted

Made London 2019

Made London: Marylebone The Contemporary Design and Craft Fair Thursday 24 - Sunday 27 October 2019 One Marylebone, London, NW1 4AQ Made London: Marylebone is an annual, highest quality contemporary craft and design fair featuring a curated selection of over 100 contemporary designer-makers. Tutton and Young have invited applications from artists working throughout the UK and have handpicked top exhibitors to showcase and sell a diverse selection of jewellery, ceramics, textiles of all descriptions, striking fashion accessories, clothes, metalwork, mixed media art, beautifully worked wood and handcrafted furniture – a huge range of gorgeous things for the home and for

Baselworld 2020

Baselworld 2020 Basel Exhibition Centre, Switzerland  30th April - 5th May 2020 Baselworld is the world's foremost show for watches, jewellery, precious stones and related industries. It interconnects the industry’s top brands (including Rolex, Patek Philippe, Chopard, TAG Heuer, Hublot and Breitling), the most influential media and the world’s most important buyers. Baselworld is the exclusive platform on which the major watch and jewellery brands present the year’s innovations to an eagerly curious international audience. Everyone who wants to know what the latest trends are and how 2019 “ticks” will find the answers live and firsthand at Baselworld. Dates:  30th

KunstRAI 2019

KunstRAI 2019 Amsterdam RAI, Europaplein 24, 1078 GZ Amsterdam, Netherlands 17 - 22 April 2019 The KunstRAI will celebrate its 35th edition in 2019. Participating galleries will show their autonomous paintings and sculptures, photography and new media. There will also be applied art and design. A few participants will show a special solo booth as part of their in-dept presentation. Others will show a part of there collection in a ever surprising Raw-Edge booth. The fair is established in 1985 and therefore one of the oldest in the world.  Venue Amstelhal (Hal 7) Amsterdam RAI, Wielingenstraat (1078 KK) Open Wednesday

Precious ?

Precious ? 28 members from over 10 countries will take part in the Precious Collective's Launch Exhibition in Plymouth, 16th to 28th April 2019 Born in November 2017 with a membership of over 120 members from 30 countries worldwide it is a very eclectic and diverse group of makers which now boasts over 4 thousand Instagram followers. Previously solely social media based; Ocean Studios will now host the physical launch of the collective. 28 selected members will present what promises to be a very exciting and possibly challenging Art-Jewellery exhibition. If precious means 'of high cost or worth: not to

Vibrant meets Vintage in Fei Liu's new 'Victoriana' Collection

For Autumn Winter 2019 Fei Liu Fine Jewellery will launch their new 18ct gold ‘Victoriana’ collection, which will form as part of a campaign with their top ten retail partners.  Characterised by Fei Liu’s aesthetic of colour, three-dimension and femininity, the collection breathes new life into vintage inspired looks. The victorian-era stones are cut in two ways: the first being octagonal, popular in the Victorian Era, and the second is Octagonal, which is longer, giving it elegant appeal.  For the campaign, Victoriana will exclusively launch with ten chosen retail partners, and will be promoted through offline, on social media and through

Lily Blanche wins Business Women Scotland Award

Stirling-based jewellery company Wow (Scotland) Ltd has triumphed in the main Scottish awards for female entrepreneurs. The company, which trades under the name Lily Blanche, won the award for best use of social media in the BWSWES Awards run jointly by Business Women Scotland and Women’s Enterprise Scotland. Founder Gillian Crawford was presented with the award by the Financial Times’ Miss Moneypenny and Dean of the Edinburgh Business School, Professor Heather McGregor. The company won the award for its Facebook campaign Lin’s Locket, which promoted the Lily Blanche Memory Keeper Locket. This innovative locket opens to reveal six secret photographs

Tweet

Tweet 16th March - 22nd June 2019 The Craft Centre & Design Gallery, Leeds, West Yorkshire Makers inspired by the beauty of birds come together in this remarkable display of jewellery, ceramics, stone, wood and works in mixed media.  Each maker translates their inspirations into unique handmade creations for you to own or admire. Jewellery Sally Ayling Sally’s jewellery is inspired by nature, in particular birds.  The graphic images from field-guide books and wildlife illustrations, ordinance survey maps, charming old packaging, classic industrial design and many other bits and pieces Sally sees on her travels.  Sally enjoys using unconventional materials

This time, it's personal: Gecko launch new Alphabet collection at Jewellery and Watch 2019

Personalisation was one of 2018’s most popular trends, according to the Business of Fashion- and it doesn’t seem to be going anywhere this year as Gecko unveil their new ‘Alphabet collection’ at Jewellery and Watch event today.  Consumers, now more than ever, seek to define themselves. With the emergence and prevalence of social media platforms, people no longer see themselves as just consumers, but producers also. Self-image has never been more important, nor has the idea of one’s own ‘personal brand’.  The idea of creating ‘personalised’ items for those with the most popular names or initials is outdated, with a

Desire Jewellery and Silversmithing Fair @ Chelsea 2020

Desire at Chelsea 2020 Chelsea Old Town Hall, London 28 February - 1 March 2020 This stunning mixed media jewellery and silversmithing event where visitors can purchase direct from contemporary designer makers selected from the best in the UK is an event not to be missed. Desire offers visitors a choice of around 90 individual jewellers and silversmiths who have been selected for their superb and innovative craftsmanship and have a genuine passion for the work they create.  Visitors can see and purchase from an exciting range from both emerging British talent as well as more established designer makers.  Exhibitors

Raw Pearls' 'Pearl Academy' Continues with Instalments Two and Three

Back in February, we reported that Raw Pearls, one of the UK’s leading pearl jewellery suppliers, have created Pearl Academy to educate the Nation on the oldest gemstone. We're seeing pearls everywhere at the moment , from the runways to the highstreet. A huge focus on jewellery inspired by sea-life has been observable in 2019, no doubt influenced by the 2019 Pantone colour of the Year 'Living Coral' , as well as the increased media focus on our endangered ocean spaces- pearls have been the perfect pairing with shell and coral details.   With this surge in interest in pearl jewellery, there's

Benchpeg Offer: Sold Out Tickets Available

This week, we are delighted to announce that Benchpeg are the official Media Partners for Make Your Mark 2019. With over 600 students and graduates already booked to attend, it looks set to be a fantastic event. Benchpeg has supported the jewellery industry for over 10 years now and in particular, those making their first steps into the industry. We have done this through our weekly newsletter, careers advice, jobs boards, funding opportunities to mention just a few and we love promoting beautiful work. Benchpeg at Make your Mark At this year’s Make Your Mark, Benchpeg will be on hand

#SheDressedMe campaign takes off ahead of UK Jewellery Awards

Guests at the UK Jewellery Awards will get the full paparazzi treatment next week after more than 20 designers signed up for the #SheDressedMe campaign and offered their jewels to ticket holders wanting to 'borrow' a bit of extra dazzle. The #SheDressedMe campaign, launched recently by the Women’s Jewellery Network (WJN),  has attracted the support of a wide range of female jewellers, all prepared to loan out pieces to be worn on the red carpet to gain industry and general media exposure. They include Rachel Galley; Roseanna Croft; Judith Peterhoff Jewellery; Michelle Tuck Jewellery; Shen London; Mona Pink; Domino; Gecko;

Aesthetica Art Prize 2018

Aesthetica Art Prize 2018 Celebrating excellence in art from across the world, the Aesthetica Art Prize, hosted by the international art and culture publication, Aesthetica Magazine, aims to support innovative practice across a range of media. Providing a platform for artists to showcase their work to an international audience, the renowned Prize presents a fantastic opportunity to further artists’ involvement in the industry. The Prize awards publication within the inspiring Future Now: 100 Contemporary Artists anthology to a longlist of 100 artists, including winners from the Main Prize and Emerging Prize categories. In addition, other prizes include a £5,000 cash

Call for Applications: Desire Fair - London 2018

Call for Applications: London Desire Fair 2018 Now in its 12th year, Desire Fair has grown to become the UK's leading silversmithing and mixed media jewellery consumer fair.   Over the holiday period we have had a couple of cancellations from our Desire Jewellery & Silversmithing Fair being held in London from 2 - 4 March 2018.  We therefore have a 2m and a 3m stand available.  Should you wish to apply for one of these spaces, please click here and return the application form as soon as possible. About the Event This will be our twelfth year of Desire in

British Council Opportunities

UK in Venice 2018: Call for Exhibitor Details  Calling all UK architects, designers and curators who are taking part in the Venice Biennale 2018: we'd like to hear about your event or exhibition. As part of the British Council's UK in Venice campaign, promoting British exhibitions and events at the Venice Art and Architecture Biennales, we would like to hear about any UK practices taking part this year. Please tell us about your involvement with all the details for your event or exhibition and we can then share this as part of the UK in Venice campaign via social media.

The Contemporary Craft Festival 2018

Call For Applications The Contemporary Craft Festival 2018 About The Contemporary Craft Festival is one of the UK’s largest and most loved craft events, which sees 200 diverse and talented makers of contemporary craft selling directly to up to 10,000 members of the public. The Festival includes Start UP, a specially designed area for businesses in the early stages of their career. Eligibility Open to makers from across the UK and Ireland working to the highest standards in ceramics, glass, textiles, jewellery, metal, wood, plastics, mixed media, leather, recycled materials and paper. No paintings, photography or musical instruments. Greetings cards are only accepted

School of Jewellery Graduate Show 2018

Graduate Show 2018: School of Jewellery The School of Jewellery's Inspired festival, is a culmination of graduate shows, exhibitions and events highlighting the creativity, hard work and progression of our Art, Design and Media students. The shows will be a celebration of the students and their innovative work, and an opportunity for them to showcase their inventive, fresh ideas to audiences. The School of Jewellery welcomes you to the 2018 graduate exhibition. The graduate exhibition sets out to inspire visitors and provide an insight into the prestigious School. It shows how individual talent has been developed through our courses and

What Are Your Creative Business Needs?

Call For Makers: What Are Your Creative Business Needs? We run an extensive nationwide programme ofprofessional workshops, 1:1 advice sessions and a biennial conference. These cover all aspects of creative businesses including marketing, branding, social media, funding, pricing, residencies, working with galleries, business planning and more. Help us help you by completing our maker survey www.surveymonkey.co.uk , telling us what your business needs are, what methods best suit you and what you'd like to know more about. First twenty completed surveys will be entitled to a complimentary ticket to Collect: The International Art Fair for Contemporary Objects at the Saatchi

Professional Development Workshops, Crafts Council

Professional Development Workshops - Crafts Council The Crafts Council has released tickets for their next series of workshops and 1:1 advice sessions for makers and designers – with more coming soon. They cover a range of topics including: Application writing & presentation skills Business visioning Finances for craft businesses Fundraising skills International practice IP & copyright (incl. employment law) Product photography Reaching your market (incl. social media) Relationship management with galleries and commissioners Working with manufacturers More details online www.craftscouncil.org.uk

Made London The Design and Craft Fair 2018

Call For Entries: Made London The Design and Craft Fair Applications are now open for MADE LONDON - The Design and Craft Fair to be held at beautiful One Marylebone from 18 - 21 October 2018. We welcome applications from across all applied arts: ceramics, jewellery, furniture, leather, glass, textiles, silverware, mixed media and anything else we don't know about from individuals, groups, galleries and shops. To Apply Full information - prices, stand sizes, how to apply and what we need from you - can be found here: madelondon-marylebone.co.uk/application Please read this in full, before applying here: madelondon-marylebone.co.uk Dates 18

Degree Shows Plymouth 2017

Breaking Through Degree Shows 2017 Plymouth College of Art Risk-taking and convention-breaking — discover the future of creative practice at our annual showcase of fresh talent in art, design, craft and digital media. Taking place throughout our HE campus, our state-of-the-art workshops and studios will transform into a dynamic exhibition space, free and open to the public from Saturday 10 to Thursday 22 June 2017. Showcasing work from students across the college’s Undergraduate, Masters and Foundation Diploma in Art & Design programmes, this summer’s Degree Shows offer an exclusive window into life at an independent art school, and a chance

Visions of Science Art Prize 2018

Call for Applications: Visions of Science Art Prize The Andrew Brownsword Gallery at the University of Bath announces its inaugural Art Prize, awarded for submissions that reflect, represent, capture or depict modern day scientific phenomena as studied by academics at The University’s Faculty of Science. Shortlisted entries will be exhibited in the Andrew Brownsword Gallery between 15 September and 13 October 2018, with the winning selections announced at a special ceremony in October. All artists are eligible to enter, whether amateur, student, graduate or professional. Painting, drawing, sculpture, film, mixed media, photography and all forms of contemporary visual arts will

IJL Launches New Seminar Offering 2017 Show

International Jewellery London has unveiled a completely revised and revamped seminar schedule for 2017, bringing back the Inspiration Theatre and Trends Catwalk and introducing DIGIfest, The Academy and Skills Lab for the very first time. The three-day seminar programme has been carefully tailored to 2016 show feedback, ensuring the questions most commonly asked by jewellery retailers, brands and businesses are answered in style. Topics covered by expert speakers and panels this year include social media marketing, working with influencers, digital design, retail experience, the customer journey and expert sales training. Leading luminary Stephen Webster shine brightly in this year’s line-up,

Morley & ACJ Jewellery Lecture Series: A Woman’s Work Is Never Done by Joanne Haywood

Morley & ACJ Jewellery Lecture Series: A Woman’s Work Is Never Done by Joanne Haywood Designed and created by  Joanne Haywood , ‘A Woman’s Work is Never Done’ is a series of twenty-one jewellery works made for fifteen trailblazing women. Come and hear about the materials and techniques used to make these mixed media jewels, as well as the pioneering women that inspired them. Joanne Haywood  is a leading art jeweller, writer and educator. She has worked and exhibited in the UK and internationally. She holds a BA(hons) in Jewellery Design from Central Saint Martins and is recognised for her individual voice

Festival of Crafts

Call for Applications: Festival of Crafts A celebration of contemporary crafts from UK makers and designers. Now in its 21st year, festival of crafts is a two day craft event held at Farnham Maltings on 28 and 29 October 2017. Festival of Crafts is an annual two day craft event held at Farnham Maltings. Now in its 21st year, the festival is well established in the craft calendar and features a curated selection of makers from across the UK. The work shown is across all media, including but not limited to, homewares, jewellery, ceramics, stationery, accessories, furniture, lighting, textiles and

Reaching Your Market: Make the most of your online presentation, marketing...

Training: Reaching Your Market: Make the most of your online presentation, marketing and social media, Crafts Council Do you have a showcase, an open studio event or an exhibition coming up? Are you applying to grant organisations? To selected programmes or exhibitions? Do you wish to be successful in your showcases or applications? This workshop will offer a visual insight into how makers and designers can present themselves online and how to generate interest and income to their practice. Why it’s worth attending? Advice on understanding how to promote your unique offer Tips on developing a brand through your vision

Joanne Haywood: A woman’s work is never done

21 Jewellery works made for 15 trailblazing women. This frieze of jewellery represents the women who have been important to mixed media jeweller Joanne Haywood from childhood to present day and were created over three year period. The project was prompted by an ACJ exhibition in 2014, where Haywood made a neckpiece in honour of Patti Smith, in response to the theme of ICONS. She accumulated a long list of trailblazing women and decided to make further works in honour of each of them and their work. The frieze of jewellery was exhibited for the first time during Made Canary

Call for Applications Desire 2018

Call for Applications: Desire 2018 Craft in Focus are inviting applications for their 2018 Desire Jewellery and Silversmithing Fairs. Applications are invited from silversmiths and jewellers working in any media.  Demand for spaces is expected to be extremely high so early application is advised. London The fair has previously been located at Richmond upon Thames and Chelsea, and is being staged in Kensington for 2018 whilst Chelsea Old Town Hall undergoes refurbishment. Winchester Guildhall, which is situated at the end of the High Street, making the venue very accessible. This period building is both well known and easily reached from

Call for Applications: Marshwood Arts Awards 2017

Call for Applications: Marshwood Arts Awards 2017 The Marshwood Arts Awards 2017 is the fourth in a series that began in 2008. Designed to support and highlight creativity across the Arts, the Awards are divided into categories. Artists are invited to submit work to any one (or more) of the categories and the relevant judge will select three artists from that category to exhibit in a high-profile mixed exhibition at the Bridport Arts Centre. The Categories Painting & Drawing Photography & Digital Media Sculpture Applied Arts (to include products such as: Furniture & Works in Wood, Ceramics & Glass, Fashion

IJL Show Director to step down after IJL 2017

International Jewellery London biggest stand alone jewellery trade event, will bid farewell to Event Director Sam Willoughby in October, after eight years at the helm and more than 13 years working for Reed Exhibitions. Willoughby and her team have developed unique and market leading features at IJL, including the VIP Diamond Club programme and an innovative 365-day strategy across content marketing, social media and industry support. At this year’s show, as well as over 500 jewellery exhibitors of which 150 are new, there is a revitalised Seminar Programme featuring brand new learning areas such as The Academy, Digifest and Skills

'Pussy pendant' makes waves for young designer Lukas Grewenig

Tip for all young designers. If you want massive mainstream media attention, design a piece that resembles a part of the women's anatomy and get a high profile jeweller to promote it on Facebook and Twitter. Lukas Grewenig, a London based designer who studied at the Royal College of Art came up with his pendant design as part of the Gilded Youth Project run for talented youths by high end jeweller Theo Fennel and Central St Martins. It is made of silver and gold with a purple gem set in the middle, and is designed to portray the way a

Made By Hand, The Contemporary Craft Fair 2017

Made By Hand, The Contemporary Craft Fair at Cheltenham Town Hall 10 – 11 March 2018 Call for Applications The Organisers of The Contemporary Craft Festival and Made by Hand, Cardiff are delighted to announce our NEW, inspirational 2 day event in the heart of Cheltenham.  Applications Open Applications are invited from makers from across the UK and Ireland. You work to the highest standards making ceramics, glass, textiles, jewellery, metal, wood, plastics, mixed media, leather, recycled materials, printmaking and paper.  You are resident in the UK or Ireland and your work shows a dedication to quality of making, presentation

Meet the Benchpeg Team

This is us. We are the team that bring the Benchpeg website, newsletter and social media feeds to our lovely readers, subscribers and followers.   Rebecca van Rooijen Co-founder | Editor Rebecca is the creator of Benchpeg, she has 20 years of experience in the industry (she started young!), her vision was to create a resource where the jewellery industry could share and access information. Along with being Editor-in-Cheif of Benchpeg, Rebecca is a Trustee of the Bishopsland Educational Trust , Committee Member for the  Communications and Marketing Committee at  The Goldsmiths’ Company , she sits on the Selection Committee

Pantone Announce Colour of the Year – for 2018

Pantone, the world renowned authority on colour, has announced its colour of the year for 2018 - Ultra Violet. The Pantone Colour Institute, which forecasts global colour trends, describes the colour as: “A dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shade, PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet communicates originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that points us toward the future.” How this effects jewellery The announcement of the Colour of the Year is significant to the jewellery industry because the fashion industry and media in particular will be picking up on accessories and fashion elements which can incorporate the hottest trend for 2018. This provides

#BehindTheBling campaign catches on

A social media campaign to persuade jewellery companies to adopt a supply chain free of child labour has been given massive support following the publication of a Human Rights Watch report on responsible sourcing. #BehindtheBling , launched by the human rights group earlier this month and promoted at Baselworld 2018, has reached audiences of more than a million users with around 8,000 letters also sent to the 13 companies who were ranked in the report for their responsible sourcing practices. This coincides with an announcement by Chopard, who were ranked as ‘weak’ in the report that from July, it will

Baselworld 2017 Launches with Press Conference

The 100th Edition of the one unmissable trendsetting show that unites key players from all sectors of the global watch and jewellery industry and sets the tone for the coming year, Baselworld 2017, commenced this week with its inaugural press conference. As every year, the eagerly awaited start of a new edition of the most unique annual event for the entire industry was witnessed by the most important international press representatives from print, television and digital media and by many thousands around the world who followed the press conference via the livestream. Mr René Kamm, CEO of the MCH Group,

Make Your Mark offer One-on-One Surgeries

This year the  Make Your Mark  event will offer visitors the opportunity to book places on one-on-one Surgeries with industry experts and young designers. The surgery sessions, which will take place throughout the two days, will be provided by specialist jewellery and watch communications agency FACETS PR and will offer visitors the chance to speak to industry experts on a one-to-one basis on subjects including PR, social media for business and how to communicate with press to secure coverage. There will also be a team of young designers available at the surgeries, who can give the attending students a realistic

The Festival of Crafts 2018

The Festival of Crafts 2018 The Festival of Crafts will return on Saturday 27 & Sunday 28 October 2018. Exhibitor applications are now open. The Festival of Crafts is an annual two day craft event held at Farnham Maltings. Now in its 22nd year, the festival is well established in the craft calendar and features a curated selection of makers from across the UK. The work shown is across all media, including but not limited to, homewares, jewellery, ceramics, stationery, accessories, furniture, lighting, textiles and print. The festival champions great design and the process of making, both traditional and modern

Appointments: Sarah Kitley-Spencer appointed IJL Event Manager

International Jewellery London, the jewellery industry trade fair event, has announced that Sarah Kitley-Spencer has been appointed as the new Event Manager. Sarah Kitley-Spencer has worked at IJL for the past seven years and Reed Exhibitions for ten years. In her former position as Marketing Manager at IJL, Sarah worked closely with her predecessor, Sam Willoughby and the wider team, to expand the show commercially - nationally and internationally.  She has been involved in implementing many of the market-leading features at IJL 2017, including the newly formatted seminar programme and the innovative 365-day strategy, encompassing content marketing, social media and

The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair

The GNCCF celebrates its 10th anniversary from 12 - 15 October 2017. Applications are now open for this leading award-winning show in the North from UK and international designer-makers working across all craft disciplines including ceramics, glass, jewellery, fashion design, textiles, leather, metal, mixed media, print-making, furniture, wood and sculpture etc. 150 exhibitors will be selected by an independent panel of craft experts. Subsidised stands for new makers in business less than 3 years and shared stands available. How to Apply Apply on line at www.greatnorthernevents.co.uk

Made By Hand The Contemporary Craft Fair 2018 Cardiff

Call for Applications Made By Hand, The Contemporary Craft Fair Applications are invited from makers from across the UK and Ireland to the finest and largest contemporary craft fair in Wales.  You work to the highest standards making ceramics, glass, textiles, jewellery, metal, wood, plastics, mixed media, leather, recycled materials, printmaking and paper.  You are resident in the UK or Ireland and your work shows a dedication to quality of making, presentation and originality. Set in one of Cardiff's premier venues, Made By Hand is in partnership with Cardiff City Council and Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre. Made By Hand will

Made London 2017

Made London 2017 19 - 22 October 2017 MADE LONDON – Marylebone is an annual contemporary craft and design fair where the very best of national and international designer-makers present and sell their work to the public. Over 120 exhibitors across all media (ceramics, wood, silver, gold, glass, textiles and more) showcase their original, unique and exceptional work to the capital. One Marylebone is a stunning former church designed by Sir John Soane. With sweeping staircases, incredible chandeliers and light and spacious characterful rooms, it’s the perfect backdrop for showcasing high end craft and design. Soane Hall has incredible height, lovely ceilings and the beautiful original

The SOLO Award 2018

Call for Applications: The SOLO Award™ 2018 The SOLO Award™ is an annual contemporary art prize open to artists of all ages, working in all media. The finalists are exhibited in a group show each spring and the overall winner receives a cash prize and a solo exhibition at the London Art Fair each January. The SOLO Award is an entirely not-for-profit project, now in its 7th year. Aimed at supporting the careers of emerging and mid-career artists, the award broadens audiences by presenting the winners' ambitious and creatively risk-taking solo projects within the established commercial context of the London Art

New Designers 2017 Events Programme Announced

An opening speech by  British ceramicist   Keith  Brymer  Jones and  Design   Reels ,  the  new digital catwalk and screening area are just two of the event highlights at New Designers, the UK’s leading exhibition for emerging design, announced today. The inspiring programme of public talks, tours and awards has been revealed as over 3,000 graduates and 80 emerging designers finalise their presentations for the show – sharing their making processes, inspiration and a glimpse of their final pieces on social media with the hashtag  # comingtoND .     A leading figure from the world of design will

MADE LONDON – Bloomsbury 2017

MADE LONDON – Bloomsbury a spring craft and design fair in the capital This is a stripped back, pared down, table top selling event, enabling the quality and diversity of the designer / makers’ work to be simply and honestly showcased in a beautiful and characterful setting. 120 exceptional makers across all media will be showing and selling their work to the public; enabling conversations about techniques, inspirations and future projects. Mary Ward House is a grade one listed arts and craft ‘settlement’ (where rich Edwardians went to live with London’s poor to provide legal advice, education classes, and opportunities

Editors’ Choice Awards, IJL 2017

IJL this week announced the launch of the highly regarded exhibitor Editors’ Choice Awards for 2017. In this ninth year, the competition has been extended to include an exciting new format, together with new categories, to reflect the breadth of innovative and commercial talent across all sectors of the show. Four awards will be judged pre-show with the winners revealed in June, followed by a further four new categories judged during IJL by an extended panel of industry media editors.  The pre-show Editors’ Choice competition is now open for entries, with IJL exhibitors able to nominate their pieces and collections

Initiation 2018-Kallichoron

Open Call for Munich Jewellery Week 8 - 11 March 2018 Call for Aplictions: Initiation 2018-Kallichoron @ Athens Air Munich Jewellery Week 2018 Initiation 2018 – Kallichoron addresses international artists working in the field of jewellery regardless of their knowledge of or connection to Greece or/and Greek culture. Initiation 2018 – Kallichoron includes an Artist Residency program with curated visits to sites/museums’ collections relevant for jewellery artists, intensive workshops on ritual dance/performance/story telling + media work in Athens, as well as a following group show in a down town Munich venue during the Jewellery Week, 8 - 11 March 2018. Initiation 2018 –

Body Language Collection Timely for International Women’s Day

With female empowerment themes strongly present amongst all media channels this week for International Women’s Day , Anissa Kermiche's Body Language collection is timely. Body Language  celebrates the female form and is a reflection of the generation of successful, powerful and funny women that Anissa sees all around her and uses as inspiration. The collection features the iconic Rubies Boobies, La Derriere and Precieux Pubis necklaces and the playful Yes We Can singular earrings amongst other pieces crafted from different golds, silver and precious stones. From her London-based studio, Anissa has sourced the finest stones and used both her technical

MADE BY HAND, The Contemporary Craft Fair

MADE BY HAND, The Contemporary Craft Fair at City Hall, Cardiff Applications are invited from makers from across the UK and Ireland to the finest and largest contemporary craft fair in Wales. You work to the highest standards making ceramics, glass, textiles, jewellery, metal, wood, plastics, mixed media, leather, recycled materials, printmaking and paper.  You are resident in the UK or Ireland and your work shows a dedication to quality of making, presentation and originality. Set in one of Cardiff's premier venues, Made By Hand is in partnership with Cardiff City Council and Llantarnam Grange Arts Centre. Made By Hand will feature

MADE BRIGHTON, St Bartholomew’s - Brighton

A Contemporary Craft and Design Christmas Shopping Fair Sixty-five top quality contemporary designer/makers across all media will be selling their handcrafted work direct to the public on Saturday 10th December. Ideal for late Christmas shopping, MADE BRIGHTON at St Bartholomew’s Church will offer original and beautiful ceramics, jewellery, homeware, glass, woodwork, textiles, screen-prints and more. There'll be a range of prices to ensure there is something for everyone. A full list of makers attending can be found here . Tickets are £4.50, and are available online or on the door. Date: Saturday 10th December Time: 10.30am – 6.00pm Venue: St

Collective a Maker’s Exhibition - Craft Central, London

Thirteen of Britain’s most exciting new designer-makers are staging an exhibition.  Collective: a Maker’s Exhibition  runs from 15-20 November 2016, and will showcase a unique blend of styles and media, including jewellery and textile designs, stylish, modern furnishings, laser-cut marquetry and breath taking ceramics. All thirteen are members of the Craft Council’s prestigious Hothouse scheme, an intensive yearly development programme that gives selected emerging makers the tools and skills to create a sustainable and successful business. All were awarded places as the southern cohort of Hothouse 2016, and decided to work together as a group to create a unique, multi-disciplinary

Desire Jewellery and Silversmithing Fair 2017

Chelsea Old Town Hall will be the venue for the superb Desire Fair from 3 - 5 March.   This stunning mixed media jewellery and silversmithing event where visitors can purchase direct from contemporary designer makers selected from the best in the UK is an event not to be missed. Desire offers visitors a choice of around 90 individual jewellers and silversmiths who have been selected for their superb and innovative craftsmanship and have a genuine passion for the work they create.  Visitors can see and purchase from an exciting range from both emerging British talent as well as more established

Sarah Salmon

Meet Benchpeg's Trends Editor. She makes up part of the team that bring the Benchpeg website, newsletter and social media feeds to our lovely readers, subscribers and followers   Sarah Salmon Trends Editor Sarah has a natural flair for creativity and design, and is our trends and blog guru. She manages Benchpeg's weekly  trends and fashion content . Her full time job is as a Digital Marketing Executive in the Educational Sector. Previously she worked as the Editorial and Digital Assistant at  Gem-A , where she worked on Gem-A's Gems & Jewellery and The Journal of Gemmology publications as well as on

Call for Applications: Top Drawer | Craft 2017

 Call for Applications: CRAFT | Top Drawer SS17 Edition January 2017 sees the return of Top Drawer | Craft for its fourth edition, introducing leading designer-makers to professional retailers, galleries and museums as they make their first buying decisions for the year. This is an international opportunity to showcase your unique work at the UK’s fastest growing trade event for contemporary makers here in the heart of London. The number of applications is likely to exceed the space available. Makers and groups are encouraged to apply from a broad range of disciplines including: ceramics, glass, jewellery, fashion, textiles, mixed media, furniture,

Craft Emergency 2016: Makers Announced

Craft Emergency have selected eleven makers for Craft Emergency 2016, a biennial open submission group exhibition featuring recent work in diverse media. The main aim of the competition is to champion contemporary craft by emerging makers from across the UK and beyond, increasing exposure for their work, and encouraging further professional development opportunities. Earlier this year the gallery launched an international open-call in association with Making Space, Havant. Eleven makers were selected for inclusion in the show by a panel of judges including: Annabelle Campbell, Head of Exhibitions and Collections, Crafts Council; Lynne Dick, Director, Making Space; Thomas Appleton, letter-carver

Contemporary Jewellery and Silversmithing Fair Returns to Winchester

Once again the elegant Guildhall in Winchester will be the venue for a stunning mixed media jewellery and silversmithing event from 11-13 November, where visitors can purchase direct from contemporary designer makers selected from the best in the UK. Desire offers visitors a choice of around 70 individual jewellers and silversmiths who have been selected for their superb and innovative craftsmanship and have a genuine passion for the work they create.  Visitors can see and purchase from an exciting range from both emerging British talent as well as more established designer makers.   Comments from visitors to the event last

Hockley Mint Welcomes Peruvian Fairtrade Gold Miners to Birmingham

Award winning fine jewellery and bridal jewellery manufacturer Hockley Mint welcomed Peruvian Fairtrade gold miners to it's factory in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter earlier this month, producing a video of the visit that it will use to promote Fairtrade gold on its website and across social media platforms. Peruvian Fairtrade gold campaigner Dajhanna Zarate, who is the daughter of a gold miner in Sotrami, was accompanied by Macdesa miner Roger Arcos Ponte on the visit to Birmingham. The two guests were in the UK as part of a wider Fairtrade gold campaign with the Fairtrade Foundation, and were invited to Hockley Mint

Made London: The Design and Craft Fair - Marylebone, London

Made London - Marylebone is an annual contemporary craft and design fair where the very best of national and international designer-makers present and sell their work to the public. Over 120 exhibitors across all media (ceramics, wood, silver, gold, glass, textiles and more) showcase their original, unique and exceptional work to the capital. A friendly, relaxed, highest quality contemporary craft and design fair, where the makers themselves meet the public to discuss inspirations, design processes and future projects, enabling maker / consumer relationships. Work can be bought at the fair or commissions can be taken. One Marylebone is a stunning

ReRooted and Nourish 2017

Artistic Commission - ReRooted and Nourish 2017, Yorkshire & Humber Visual arts Network (YVAN) Yorkshire & Humber Visual Arts Network wishes to commission an artist to create a work in response to the live and media arts festival ReROOTed taking place at the Humber Street Gallery, Hull, from 24-26 March, then present the work at YVAN’s Nourish 2017 regional conversation in Autumn this year. YVAN aims to provide a voice for the region’s Visual Arts sector.  It is funded by Arts Council England and is a regional partner of the national Contemporary Visual Arts Network. About Nourish 2017 Nourish 2017

Greenery: The Colour Set to Revive, Refresh, Renew

Welcome to the fresh and zesty world of Greenery15-0343, the Pantone colour blooming into 2017! Greenery is natures' authentic omnipresent hue of thriving; emblematic for vitality and the need to strip back to our organic state of being. After suffering a turbulent political and social upheaval throughout most of 2016, this yellow-green shade symbolises a need to reconnect to nature and a more grounded sense of purpose.  In a world monopolised by social media and technology, 'Greenery' reminds us of noticing the real truth and beauty in the natural aesthetics around us; a sense of escapism from our materialistic society and

Call for Participants: Saltaire Arts Trail Makers Fair 2017

We are busy working on plans for the tenth Saltaire Arts Trail weekend which will take place on 27-29 May next year, and are looking for proposals from visual artists working in any 2D or 3D media to exhibit in our famous village-wide gallery of Open Houses, and from designer-makers to show and sell in the Makers Fair in Victoria Hall during the three day event. Make your submission to exhibit via Curatorspace.com using the links below: Open Houses - artist exhibiting opportunity www.curatorspace.com Makers Fair - designer-makers showing/selling opportunity www.curatorspace.com The application deadline is Friday 13 January 2017. Contact:

Thomas Sabo Announces New UK & Ireland Ambassador: Frankie Bridge

Thomas Sabo, the global premium lifestyle accessory brand, is delighted to announce a new ambassador – Frankie Bridge, who joins the brand from August 2016.   In becoming an official lifestyle ambassador for THOMAS SABO, Frankie will support the company in expanding its message to both new and old audiences, through store appearances, media interviews, and recommending her favourite products to wear for key seasonal moments, including Holiday and Christmas.   Frankie Bridge is an English pop star and TV presenter. The intention of the new partnership is to strengthen and amplify the THOMAS SABO brand in the UK by

Jewelley brand STÖÖKI has collaborated with FLAARE for socially focused project

FLAARE and STÖÖKI are proud to share the story of a unique partnership. This brand collab meets student work experience has been a hit over the past 12-weeks resulting in the t-shirt collection you see here! Kicking off with vision-boarding at Thames Side Studios, the young entrepreneurs (students at Haringey Learning Partnership) collaborated with Hackney born fashion brand STÖÖKI to co-design, brand, and print a collection of limited edition FLAARE x STÖÖKI t-shirts. They have modelled in two awesome photo shoots at Thames Side Studios and Alexandra Palace and been interviewed by STÖÖKI’s camera team for social media content, gaining

News Edit: 9 May 2021

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Jeweler Pandora Takes Ethical Stand Against Mined Diamonds Bloomberg: Pandora A/S, which makes more pieces of jewelry than any other company in the world, will no longer use mined diamonds, dropping another raw material tainted by ethical concerns. www.bloomberg.com Inside Track: Ex-Facebook chief Dave Spillane gives fine ethical jewellery the thumbs-up The Times: Dave Spillane, who was one of Facebook’s top Irish executives, rising to the post of the social media giant’s chief accounting officer in Silicon Valley, has gone into jewellery and shiny things. www.thetimes.co.uk BBC: All

Karolina Baines: Beauty in Interaction

Not only goldsmith tradition characterizes Karolina Baines’s work. She starts from there to explore the creation through many different techniques like sketches, painting, printmaking and mixed media. She aims at balancing shapes, colours and texture in a very refined and delicate way. Her pieces are always very malleable while keeping a strong and independent sense of movement. I addressed her few questions to better understand her world, writes Ilaria Ruggiero. IR: Where does your passion for jewellery come from? KB: I suppose I think of myself as a designer/maker first, and then as specifically a jewellery designer/maker. I love bringing ideas IR: Have

Nambé Celebrates Successful UK Launch Event

Designer lifestyle brand, Nambé, hosted its official UK launch event on June 29, giving retailers, buyers, journalists and social media influencers the chance to see its extensive ranges for the first time.  The award-winning brand took over a private room at London’s popular Hoxton Hotel to bring its lifestyle collections to life, while also displaying its new sterling silver jewellery offer that impressed buyers at JCK Las Vegas earlier this year. Representatives from jewellery retailers and department stores were particularly impressed with the brand’s wide-ranging giftware items, including wedding, baby, new- home and special occasion items. Buyers in attendance also

Nambé Celebrates Strong Debut at JCK Las Vegas

Designer lifestyle brand, Nambé, enjoyed a positive reception at this year’s JCK Las Vegas (June 5-8), welcoming international media, buyers and retailers to its booth ahead of its London launch event on June 29.  The award-winning brand impressed its existing retail partners and prospective clients with its recently-launched sterling silver jewellery collection and giftware assortment. Initially debuted in the United States in September 2016, Nambé Jewellery proved immediately popular with the brand’s loyal homeware customers who recognised its signature, sculptural aesthetic. Its initial roll-out in 400 doors across the US and the reaction of retail partners at JCK Las Vegas proves

Howard van Rooijen

Meet the other of Benchpeg's Co-Founders. Although on a day to day basis he takes a back seat, he makes up part of the team that bring the Benchpeg website, newsletter and social media feeds possible to our lovely readers, subscribers and followers   Howard van Rooijen Co-founder Howard  has been at Benchpeg since the beginning. With an exceptional  understanding of business and technology , he has provided us with practical, financial and moral support for over a decade. We couldn't have achieved half of the things we've done without his stalwart presence.  When he's not involved in Benchpeg stuff Howard