LONDON.- Silver Speaks: ‘Form’ is an exhibition of work by members of Contemporary British Silversmiths. It offers a behind the scenes look at the techniques that enable makers to create work in silver, while exploring their relationship with materials, processes and tools. It is part of Silver Speaks, the year long programme of events celebrating the exceptional level of creativity and skill in British silversmithing today. Running from 1st June until 23rd September 2016, it takes place at The Goldsmiths’ Centre in London.

The exhibition provides an insight into the processes behind the making of objects and what is used to create them. Showcasing 33 works alongside the makers’ tools, original samples and drawings.

The silversmiths selected were those whose designs successfully interpreted one of the themes outlined in the brief, listed below, as well as simultaneously exhibiting excellence in design and craftsmanship.

• Strike – concerning the use of tools to form and manipulate silver to create objects

• Construct – relating to building objects using construction techniques such as scoring or folding

• Enrich – enhancing an object with decorative finishes such as engraving or etching

• Colour – the application of colour to an object through patination, enameling, inlaying or gilding

• Innovate – concerning new technologies such as rapid prototyping or the use of traditional techniques employed in new ways

Karin Paynter, Director of Silver Speaks, comments: “Form is all about celebrating the making process, demonstrating the importance of tools and materials for individual silversmiths and showcasing the breadth of craftsmanship in British silversmithing. Through the Silver Speaks programme, Contemporary British Silversmiths is putting silver on the world stage to show how beautiful pieces can be created to enhance contemporary living, architecture and fashion.”

Awarding winning multidisciplinary designer Anne Kernan worked alongside Contemporary British Silversmiths to design the exhibition.

This exhibition complements Silver Speaks’ current V&A exhibition ‘Idea to Object’, which traces how a work in silver is brought into being from the design concept through to the final piece.

Silver Speaks is a year-long series of events being held around the country to celebrate the exceptional level of creativity and skill in British silversmithing today. The spotlight shines on some of the most exciting artists and designers – exploring the diverse applications of the material, from the experimental to the traditional, the sculptural to the functional. It showcases the remarkable uses of silver and how works can be commissioned to enhance contemporary living, architecture and fashion.