Enamel in Jewelry – Masterclass with Naomi Clarke

As part of the Slovenian Jewelry Week, we invite you to a unique masterclass with renowned British jewelry designer and enamel master Naomi Clarke. Under her expert guidance, you will learn to use this ancient technique of jewelry making, which results in stunning colors and enduring beauty.

The wet enamel technique, which you will learn in the masterclass, involves coloring metal with pigments from glass powder, which are fused onto the metal using flame or high temperatures in a kiln. This creates a vibrant and extremely durable finish on the metal, allowing for the creation of highly colorful pieces of jewelry.

Enameling is an ancient art that dates back to antiquity. In ancient Greece, Egypt, and the Roman Empire, enamel techniques were used in jewelry and other decorative arts. Throughout history, enamel artisans have created some of the most exquisite and intricate pieces of jewelry for royal collections. One of the most famous examples is the Fabergé eggs, created for the Russian Empire in the late 19th century.

Despite its rich history, enamel technique is still alive and present in contemporary design. Many modern jewelry makers use enamel to create innovative designs that combine traditional techniques with modern aesthetics. Enamel is not limited to jewelry; it is also used in other decorative arts, such as clockmaking, decorative boxes, and even sculptures.

Naomi Clarke will introduce you to the basics of the wet enamel technique during the masterclass. Then, together, you will prepare color pigments suitable for application on metal, apply them to the chosen piece using special tools, and then fuse them onto the metal with flame or in a kiln at high temperatures.

Prerequisites:

NO, prior knowledge is not required. The masterclass is suitable for adults who are just starting to explore different jewelry making techniques and for jewelry designers who want to learn new techniques for enhancing metals with color.

Does the workshop count as training?

YES, by participating in the workshop, you will complete training for the jewelry bench 1st level (worth €30 for members/€40 for non-members), and you will be able to use this work station independently during open sessions next time.

About the mentors:

The masterclass will be led by British jewelry designer and lecturer Naomi Clarke. Since 2020, she has been teaching at the Jewelry School of Birmingham City University and is currently also teaching at the master's level in Jewelry and Related Products. Naomi Clarke has been active in the jewelry industry and beyond for the past 20 years, with a strong emphasis on connecting with heritage and art in her design and work.

Metka Mikuletič is a master of architecture and jewelry designer who, after completing a goldsmithing school, embarked on an independent design path. In her work, Mikuletič combines traditional goldsmithing techniques and heritage with advanced design approaches, creating a unique connection between the past and the future. The author operates under the jewelry brand Mimotho, which is conceptually, in design and execution, closely related to architecture. Selected jewelry collections bearing her signature are also available in Paris and New York.

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Participants should meet 15 minutes before the agreed time in the entrance hall of the Center Rog. Please, before the start of the program, put your personal belongings in the locker rooms. Do not be late for the program. In case of delay, entry is not guaranteed - once the creative process begins, it is no longer possible to join in!

The workshop will be conducted with a minimum of 4 registrations. In case of non-execution, you will be informed at least two days before the start of the program.

Registration fees are non-refundable, and it is also not possible to change the date. Participation can be transferred to another person; please notify us at least 24 hours before the start by email at: nakit@center-rog.si.