Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council appoints new Chair and Vice Chair
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The Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council (GC&DC) has appointed John Ball, managing director at British fine jewellery manufacturer Brown & Newirth, as its new Chair for the next two years.
John takes over the role of Chair from Anne-Marie Reeves, who has come to the end of her two-year term, but will remain on Council.
Having joined the GC&DC as a council member in 2020, John has held the position of Vice Chair of Council for the last two years, assisting Anne-Marie.
He was officially elected to the role of Chair at a full council meeting last Friday (25 October) and will be joined in his role by Judith Lockwood, director of Mesmeric Distribution, who was elected as Vice Chair at the same meeting.
Founded in 1908, The Goldsmiths' Craft and Design Council is an organisation that promotes the highest standards in design and craftsmanship within the jewellery, goldsmithing, silversmithing industry and allied crafts.
Speaking to Council as he was officially elected as Chair, John explained:
“As I step into this role, I do so with a deep sense of responsibility and excitement. I’ve been fortunate to play a part in this brilliant Council for several years, and in that time, I’ve witnessed first hand the incredible impact we’ve had on our industry.
“From nurturing emerging talent to championing creativity and craftsmanship, our work touches lives and shapes the future for many.
“My goal as Chair is simple: to ensure that the GC&DC continues to thrive, grow, and push boundaries in ways that honour our rich history while embracing the future.
“We are approaching a milestone: the 700th
anniversary of the Goldsmiths' Company in 2027 and our very own anniversary in 2028, when the GC&DC will be 120 years old.
“These are moments to celebrate and opportunities to elevate our work and leave a lasting legacy for future generations.”
As she steps down from her position as Chair, Anne-Marie added:
“I am delighted to be handing the role to John, who will bring energy and focus to lead GC&DC forward. My vision, as Chair, was to build on a solid foundation and steer not only our Awards but also GC&DC itself to flourish among an even wider audience and build new relationships. I am very proud to have had this opportunity.”
The GC&DC is responsible for the annual GC&DC competition, which just opened for entries, and
rewards excellence in technical skills and creative design in precious metals and related materials.
The competition is open to all in the jewellery, silversmithing and allied trades including craft persons and designers in the industry as well as apprentices, students and hobbyists and is completely free to enter.
The closing date for online entries is 14 January, 2025
Visit the GC&DC Website for further details and to enter.
Key dates for the 2025 competition are as follows:
14 January Online entry deadline for ALL entries
14 – 16 January Entry submission days at Goldsmiths’ Centre, London
3 March Awards Ceremony at Goldsmiths’ Hall, London
4 - 7 March Exhbition of winning designs at Goldsmiths’ Hall, London
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