UNIVERSITY NEWS LAST UPDATED : 17 JULY 2019
BA (Hons) Jewellery and Silversmithing – Design for Industry student, Lorna McNaught, received an associate Eco Award for her use of eco-friendly and ethically-sourced metal in her work at this year’s New Designers exhibition in London.
Every year, New Designers brings together the best design work from many creative courses across the country. Awards are presented throughout the exhibition, judged by top creatives from around the world. Awards are given to the most creative and forward-thinking talents, rewarding them with cash, professional advice and/or paid work placements, providing graduates with vital support as they begin their creative careers.
Lorna’s collection compares and contrasts the use of traditional carving and modern computer software, whilst showcasing the wonderful world of plants. This collection is also heavily focused on the changes we can make as a species if we appreciate the planet more. So, wherever possible, every ring is made from recycled or fair-trade metal. Lorna’s gemstones are all responsibly sourced and are one of a kind.
“Throughout researching, making and finishing this collection I've learnt more about botanical science than ever before. I chose five categories of plants I felt were the most interesting; these were: carnivorous, defensive, medicinal, growth and 'all rounders'”, Lorna explained.
As part of the prize, Lorna received two books about fair mined and fair trade metal in sustainable jewellery and 100g of fair trade gold to use within her casting for future work from fine jeweller VIPA Designs and Ingle & Rhode jointly.
Ian Nicholson from The Precious Metals Workshop, and part of the judging group, commented on Lorna's achievement,
"We all felt Lorna’s approach to her work, concept, development, production and display was thought about at every step with ethics and responsibility always a governing factor behind her decisions. This is the kind of work that gives me hope in our younger creative generation and we were delighted to acknowledge, commend and award Lorna for her efforts."
Speaking after receiving the award, Lorna said:
“I could not even contain my happiness at the idea that I was being recognised for my passion for the environment. It is the part of my personality that I am most proud of and something I look for in new friends and colleagues.”
It wasn’t the only prize the School won this year as they were also commended with the Best Stand Award. The judges were impressed by the stand’s accessibility and use of sustainable, recycled materials.
Head of the School of Jewellery Professor Stephen Bottomley said: “I’m delighted the brave reworking of the degree show, mixing up work by all our BA and HND courses and the new lower tables for greater viewing by all ages has proved so successful."
“Lecturer in Design for Industry Andrew Howard collected the award with Bethany Cubbins, HND Jewellery and Silversmithing graduate, as the driving force behind the stand build. The School had much to celebrate in London this week with magnificent work on display.”