Supporting the next generation of designer-makers

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Each year, the RBSA awards prizes for innovation and creativity at Birmingham City University’s School of Jewellery annual degree show. The judges look through all the collections to identify work that challenges the boundaries of jewellery, employs the use of interesting materials, effectively utilises new technology and demonstrates excellence in craftsmanship.

This year’s judges were Natalie Osborne, Learning and Engagement Manager and Felicia Guingouain, Gallery Coordinator & Lead Brand Designer. The three selected graduates, one winner and two runners-up, win the opportunity to display pieces from their graduate collection in the RBSA Craft Gallery.

The judging process was certainly not easy this year; the quality of jewellery on show was outstanding, each piece made with care and precision. The show was diverse in both concept and execution, bringing together traditional making techniques and elements of computer-aided design. The winners were eventually chosen for the overall delivery of their work, taking into consideration their original ideas and how effectively the jewellery translated them. Linda Zelikovska is this year’s winner. Abbie Owen-Thomas and Lisa Reason are the two runners-up.

The RBSA is delighted to help champion the talent nurtured by the School of Jewellery and to support the next generation of jewellers.