Mark Fenn Award 2017
The winner of the ACJ Mark Fenn Award for 2017 is Isla Christie.
Isla was chosen from all the graduating students currently showing their work at New Designers, London. She has just completed her BA Silversmithing and Jewellery course at Glasgow School of Art, achieving First Class Honours.
Her collection consists of an extremely wide range of earrings and brooches using layers of cut waterproof paper with silver. Basing her designs on ‘the infinite possibilities of geometric forms’ she has produced a large nu
mber of creative combinations and alternatives; overall displaying a sound cohesive aesthetic and sensibly limited colour palette.
Some of her later pieces have an added benefit of kinetic movement and the opportunity for elements to be interchanged.
The judges included Nicola Bond and Chris Cursley who run the Cursley & Bond Gallery in Folkestone. They were particularly impressed with the way Isla had developed unique items of character, yet also offering range and choice. They were also appreciative of her knowledge of costing and market placement. In fact, Nicola and Chris had no hesitation in offering Isla a case in their gallery ‘as soon as practical’, which is great news for all.
Prior to the event the judges were wondering whether this year would see the third consecutive one that the award went to a maker employing 3D printing. As it happens Isla does not use this specific technique, but benefits from using various digital tools to provide inspiration as well as prod
uce the various elements of her layered forms.
Isla wins free membership of the ACJ for one year; our thanks to Mark Fenn for his continuing sponsorship of this award.