Two Queensland College of Art (QCA) Jewellery & Small Objects students have been named as finalists in the Ethical Metalsmiths (EM) Awards.
Third year QCA student Lauren Ryan and Master of Fine Art student Catherine Large will now participate in the Ethical Metalsmiths So Fresh + So Clean exhibition, with 13 other finalists selected from five countries across four continents.
Finalists impressed the judges with their socially and environmentally responsible jewellery practices and designs.
Catherine, who is also a QCA staff member, works with predominantly recycled and reused materials.
“I am mindful of the origin of any new materials I purchase, and prefer to use objects and materials that have had a former life,” Catherine says.
Lauren is also conscious of where the materials she uses come from.
She says working with local lapidary clubs has amplified her interest in ethical jewellery production.
“Since joining Ethical Metalsmiths I have begun to pay more attention to understanding where my materials come from and whether or not they are ethically sourced,” she says.
“Closer involvement with local lapidary clubs and their student members over the past few months has helped increase my knowledge in this area.”
Chair of the EM student committee Lucy Louise Derickson says the characteristics they were looking for in the finalists covered a range of criteria including buying materials locally, reconsidering toxic chemical consumption and disposal, and using green packaging.
“The finalists are finding ethically sourced materials, exploring diverse fabrication methods and giving life to used or discarded materials” Lucy says.
“They also join like-minded community groups, all while creating work that advances contemporary metalsmithing.”
Visit the Ethical Metalsmiths International website to view the ‘So Fresh + So Clean’ online gallery and to read an interview with Catherine Large.
Find out more about the Bachelor of Fine Art at the Queensland College of Art.
Materials: 100% recycled sterling silver, enamel