University News Last updated 14 May 2015
Hayley Beckley, a graduate of BA (Hons) Jewellery and Silversmithing and Artist in Residence at the School of Jewellery won the Best Newcomer Award at the British Craft Trade Fair.
The event rewards British designers in jewellery and silversmithing and was held between 12 and 14 April in Harrogate. Hayley was given the Best Newcomer Award for her collection 'Found in the Forest', mostly made of pieces of work she produced throughout her degree. The collection consists of hand-pleated collars, cuffs, and bow ties made from digitally printed silk bamboo and recycled silver.
Winning the award was quite a big shock to Hayley, although she was not able to collect the award in person. She said:
Angie Boyer, co-director of Craft & Design Magazine declared she was highly impressed with Hayley's work, saying:
Hayley admits that she would never have achieved this without spending three years as an undergraduate at the School of Jewellery. Expressing her thanks to the Jewellery and Silversmithing course tutors and those who gave her the opportunity to work at the School as an Artist in Residence for "their invaluable advice and guidance".
Hayley will also take part in Jeweltopia, an Artist-in-Residence exhibition at School of Jewellery, in May.