St Paul’s Gallery to host silverware display

BIRMINGHAM’S  St Paul’s Gallery is to host a display of work from the UK’s leading silversmiths as part of British Silver Week 2010.
 
The exhibition, jointly sponsored by the Birmingham Assay Office, St Paul’s Gallery and The PMC Studio, will take place at the Jewellery Quarter venue between June 7-27.

Silversmiths from Birmingham and across the Midlands region will participate in the three-week exhibition, alongside artists from across the UK, giving the general public a rare opportunity to see – and buy – contemporary pieces of silverware.  
 
Theresa Nguyen, one of three ambassadors of British Silver Week 2010, will be providing a stunning centrepiece for the exhibition. Other silversmiths participating include Andrew MacGowan, L J Millington, Louise Chesshire, Martyn Pugh, Rachel Gogerly and Ryan McClean.
 
Theresa Nguyen said: “Directly hammering and manipulating silver enables forms to be organically evolved.

“The objects should invite people to enjoy both tactile and visual experiences.”

Her most recent work is highly influenced by natural form and in particular leaf forms of Camellia Japonicas, resulting in elegant vases and bowls.

Now in its third year, British Silver Week is aiming to promote contemporary British silversmithing to an even wider audience in 2010. This year, there will be more than 15 selling events held in galleries and specialist shops across the UK.

Organisers said modern silversmithing in the UK was currently enjoying a renaissance unparalleled since the 18th century and the various exhibitions would showcase this.

Silversmiths were using the precious metal to design contemporary pieces that were crossing the boundaries between art and functionality, and reflecting modern living.

Visitors to exhibitions will have the opportunity to ask silversmiths and retailers questions about the specialist and technical art of silversmithing, and most of the pieces on display will be available for purchase.