Design History and Theory Silversmithing and Jewellery

Nicholas Oddy Head of Department of Design History and Theory

As part of their degree, all BA Hons School of Design students submit a substantial piece of written work to the Department of Design History and Theory (DH&T) and a synopsis of every one is included in these pages. Students may opt for either a shorter (5,000 word) or longer (10,000 word) submission, the latter being a third of their overall degree submissions. In addition to the two lengths, there are three different modes of submission; essay/dissertation; critical journal (exploring the author’s studio practice in a larger critical and cultural context); or curatorial rationale (an in-depth proposal for an exhibition with its subject and venue the choice of the author). All DH&T staff are involved in the supervision of Honours submissions, which is on a one-to-one basis, and it is always a pleasure to guide what is always a wide range of fascinating and challenging projects.

DH&T is independent of studio, with its own external examiner, and upholds a principle of free subject choice. Therefore, while some write on topics directly concerned with their studio practice, others explore topics that seem to have no bearing on it, often personal interests or socio-cultural issues. This does not mean they are unconnected with studio, however, as the creative process is one of thought and all these submissions are deeply thoughtful, often informing practice in intangible, but significant ways.

Finally, congratulations to everyone who has submitted this year. On behalf of all in the Department, good luck in whatever the future holds.

Design Anna Gordon Head of Department and Programme Leader

Contemporary studio jewellery and silversmithing continues to challenge perceived boundaries, using the artifact as a way of evoking a response to social and cultural issues such as gender, relationships, politics and the environment. There is also an appetite to explore beautiful objects and the pleasure they bring to daily life.

Each of this year’s graduates has developed their own personal voice, interrogating the subject specialism to develop a collection of new and engaging pieces to be enjoyed, handled and worn.

With special thanks to all of the academic and technical staff in the silversmithing and jewellery department

Academic staff

Michael Pell

Marianne Anderson

Andrew Lamb

Silvia Weidenbach

Technical staff

Nigel Munro

Shona Guthrie

Maciej Sankowski