Crafts enjoy more success at Goldsmiths' Awards

A 3D Design: Crafts student is celebrating after winning a prize at a prestigious awards ceremony in London – regarded as the Oscars of the jewellery and silversmithing industry.

Level 3 student Nicola Harper scooped the silver prize in the Fine Jewellery category for her suite of multi-functional Domino Designs jewellery at the 2010 Goldsmiths’ Craftsmanship & Design Awards.

Nicola entered the competition, which is open to all universities and professional makers, as part of her Live Briefs module and was “totally taken aback” when she discovered she had won an award.

“Winning the silver prize was more than I could have hoped for,” admitted Nicola, who becomes Staffordshire University’s first-ever winner at the Goldsmiths’ Craftsmanship & Design Awards.

“I went to the awards ceremony expecting a commendation, so when my name was announced I could barely believe it.

“The £150 prize money has greatly helped with my making for the upcoming Degree Show – allowing me to create more precious metal pieces.”

Nicola added: “The prestige of winning the silver prize has definitely boosted my confidence and encouraged me to try harder than ever in my work.

“It has also motivated me to enter other competitions as I now feel a lot more confident that my work can stand out in an area in which usually only professionals are recognised.”

Rajesh Gogna, one of Nicola’s lecturers at Staffordshire, was full of praise for her achievement.

“Nicola has worked extremely hard during her Live Briefs module where she has developed a successful body of work,” said Rajesh.

“She is an energetic student who has embraced all the opportunities within the 3D Designs: Crafts course and will go on to graduate ready for the creative industry with confidence.”

This follows on from the success of two other crafts students at the Goldsmith’s Metal Bursary Awards.