The Artisan Awards is an initiative spearheaded by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council of India; an endeavour that aims to provide a platform for creative professionals to maximise their individualistic and creative ideas in jewellery design.
The thematic contests held annually have witnessed exclusive, never-seen-before, one-of-a-kind jewels that highlight the levels of innovation this industry is capable of. With entries coming in from all parts of the world, this competition has proven time and again that it can be global in its outlook, welcoming in its inclusivity and authoritative in its ability to propel careers forward. With many more seasons still to come, The Artisan is well on its way to becoming a hallmark for ground-breaking thinking in the jewellery space.
3 Eras! 625 Entries! 27 Finalists! 9 Winners. For the 2020 edition, legendary British designer Stephen Webster graced the annual momentous event recognising and rewarding the best in jewellery design, The Artisan Jewellery Design Awards, an initiative by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC). The Artisan Awards epitomises the highest levels of artistry, innovation and individuality - elevating jewellery designers to their rightful status of artistes.
Mr. Stephen Webster said, “For a piece of jewellery materials are everything. Materials and craft form the basis, but the element of design pushes things further. Design competitions are important because they challenge you to push yourself creatively, to push your own boundaries. India is steeped in tradition and India has influenced nearly all jewellery designers. I congratulate all the winners of The Artisan Awards presented by GJEPC and can say we have seen some great pieces.”
Art transcends or translates into many kinds of expression, jewellery being one of them. It is interesting for designers to be inspired by different art forms. I am amazed at the transformation of pieces from the sketch to actual jewellery pieces. I think the finishing was brilliant.
Director and Co-owner, Nature Morte Gallery
The abstractionism segment was very colourful, it was fun. Most of the pieces were well finished and wearable. Artisans play a big role in translating ideas into actual pieces, and they are as important as the designer, if not more, as they bring each design to life. It’s important to upskill and pay the artisans well as they are the future of the jewellery industry.
Co-Founder, Saritoria
I loved the theme, and it was interesting to see the different interpretations young designers came up with—how they worked with the idea of indiamoderne and incorporated the themes of abstraction, sculpture and print in a way that could be beautiful for the wearer of the jewellery. I think it’s great to give these kinds of platforms to young talent. Competitions like The Artisan Awards can propel us into a new era of creativity.
Author
The Artisan Awards is a great initiative that gives a platform for new designers to design and showcase their creations to the world. What is very, very important is how they’re going to bring the vision to life. The theme for this year was indiamoderne and I found the participants had done an excellent job.
Jewellery Designer, Sajjante
The remarkable creativity showcased by the talented jewellery designers was enthralling to witness. The theme ‘India Moderne’ truly captured the essence of our rich heritage fused with contemporary art forms, and it was a privilege to witness a fusion of abstract paintings, sculptures, and prints in these exquisite jewellery pieces. Compliments to GJEPC for this platform – The Artisan Awards – that celebrates the artistic brilliance and ingenuity of our industry and inspires future generations of jewellery designers.
Managing Director, GIA India
I think fashion and jewellery go really well together, and there’s a lot of synergy between the two streams. The Artisan is an important platform of applauding great talent, and allowing this amazing talent to come through and become a part of mainstream retail.
Fashion Designer, Shantnu & Nikhil
I was so impressed by the entries, especially because I’m very fond of jewellery. What stood out to me was the genuine innovation displayed by the designers. The level of detail in some of the pieces was exquisite, with filigree work that I had never seen before. Other pieces paid homage to the classic Art Deco style, while some designers made use of oxidised metals in interesting ways. Each piece was unique, and I am eagerly anticipating the announcement of the award winners.
Content Creator and Jewellery Connoisseur
The Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), is the apex body for gem & jewellery trade in India. Under the aegis of Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, the Council spearheads the USD40 billion Gem & Jewellery trade employing a workforce of 5 Million.
Set up in 1966, GJEPC represents 9000-plus members across Gem & Jewellery products from India.
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GIA India Laboratory Private Limited (‘GIA India’) is an independent subsidiary of the Gemological Institute of America, Inc. (‘GIA’). Established in 1931, GIA is recognised as the world’s foremost authority in gemmology. GIA invented the famous 4Cs of Color, Clarity, Cut and Carat Weight and, in 1953, created the International Diamond Grading System™ which is recognised around the world as the standard for diamond quality.
Through research, education, gemmological laboratory services and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewellery by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science and professionalism. All of GIA’s activities are governed by its mission to serve the public. Visit GIA.edu or GIAindia.in.
