A foray into the spectacular Goldsmiths' Hall over the next week
could be a dangerous thing.
Because it's the annual Goldsmiths' Fair, (this year celebrating
its 30th anniversary), where 90 jewellers and
silversmiths present and ply their latest designs and
collections.
This was my first time at both the hall and the fair and boy was
it exciting on many levels.
Firstly because Goldsmiths' Hall is spectacular and imbued with
history. The hall (this is its 3rd incarnation) has been
based on this very spot since 1339. The current hall with double
height ceilings, sweeping stairs and stuffed with marble was
designed by Philip Hardwick and somehow managed to survive the
Second World War (despite a bomb exploding in the south west
corner).
Secondly it's exciting because rather than blindly moseying
round a jewellery shop, the fair creates an environment in which to
meet the talented designers and craftsmen. They are passionate
about what they do, which means you can't help getting intimately
involved, way beyond the aesthetics.
And finally I found it thrilling because the level of concept,
innovation and execution is at such a high standard. As well as
some of the bigger name jewellers (Shaun Leane, Tomasz Donocik and
Wright & Teague), Goldsmiths' also offers a free exhibition
space for ten graduates, giving them a vital leg up in a
competitive market.
The jewellery I lost my heart to; Tom Rucker who seems to work
like a spider, weaving freehand orb-shape webs from platinum; light
as air and so delicate. And the amazingly unique designs of
Jonathan Matthew Boyd; working with text and hidden messages to
create a collection that's part sculpture, part jewellery, part
divine!
Goldsmiths' Fair - open until 7 October, 2012
Goldsmiths' Hall
Foster Lane
London, EC2V 6BN
Tel: 020 7606 7010
www.thegoldsmiths.co.uk
Goldsmiths' Fair offered all Vanity Fair A-List members
the chance to win one of 10 pairs of tickets to an exclusive
Shopping Evening with wine and canapés. Don't miss out on future
offers, sign up to the
A-List