Brilliantly Birmingham, a unique celebration of Birmingham’s long standing reputation for jewellery design and production, returns for the ninth year showcasing an array of innovative work by a handpicked selection of new and emerging designer makers.
From November 28th until December 21st 2008, the best new contemporary jewellery will be exhibited across Birmingham and the West Midlands in a variety of venues offering the public an opportunity to buy innovative and affordable gifts directly from the designers during the Christmas season.
FLUX, the Brilliantly Birmingham curated exhibition now in its third year will exhibit a selection of the best new and emerging contemporary designer makers from the UK and around the globe.
The hunt is on to find up to 30 designer makers who will secure the opportunity to exhibit amongst the cream of new and emerging talent in the jewellery world. Competition is fierce with over 100 designer makers vying for up to 30 places.
Last year’s showcase saw exhibitors from destinations as far flung as Ireland and Hong Kong, as well as rising designer maker stars from the West Midlands.
This year Brilliantly Birmingham is profiling the stunning work of Birmingham City University graduate Sally Collins, her ‘Hybrid’ piece took over 400 hours to produce and retails at £3,200. Sally, originally from Leicester, graduated this year and was awarded a distinction in her MA in Silversmithing, Jewellery, and Related Product from the School of Jewellery.
Revered by renowned jewellery critic Jorunn Veiteberg*, her work explores the evolution of ornamentation and recycled materials. Her collection ‘Make Do and Mend’, features a range of jewellery from second-hand fabric, crochet, lace, heat treated copper and gold-plated elements.
A programme of associated exhibitions, one off events and workshops and seminars will accompany FLUX including:
Seminars
Fetish Fashion – Explores the blurred lines between fetish and fashion with the Novelist Kathy Lette and Jewellery Designer to the stars Stephen Webster.
All That Glitters – A discussion surrounding ethics and fair trade within the jewellery industry.
The New Gold Rush – A wealth management seminar that invites you to consider your jewellery as investment as well as adornment.
Open Studios, venues across The Jewellery Quarter.
Visit the studios where unique hand-made jewellery has been designed and made for centuries for an intimate look behind the scenes.
Walks in the Quarter – Local historian, Chris Upton’s annual walks around the Jewellery Quarter have achieved almost cult status. Uncovering the amazing history surrounding the area that’s steeped in jewellery heritage, the walks are always over-subscribed.
Susan McNally, Brilliantly Birmingham Project Manager, said: “Brilliantly Birmingham has grown into a significant showcase for designer makers with the standard of submitted work increasing year on year. In our ninth year we are proud to have become a regular and welcome fixture in the calendar and synonymous with innovative, emerging jewellery design.”
Councillor Ray Hassall, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Sport, and Culture, added: “Birmingham City Council is delighted to be celebrating the city’s thriving jewellery heritage by supporting Brilliantly Birmingham. The festival provides emerging designer makers with a platform to promote their talents – as well as the city to an international audience.”
Visit www.brilliantlybirmingham.com or call 0121 464 1187.