Tutors receive skills training with silversmith Adi Toch in Northern Ireland
Last month, seven tutors and associated staff from educational organisations across Northern Ireland spent three days with award-winning silversmith Adi Toch, exploring simple and surprising solutions for colouring metals.
Hosted at Ulster University and organised by the Goldsmiths’ Centre, participants were given the chance to step back into the workshop and be inspired by one of the UK’s top silversmiths. They explored the exciting colouring potential of metals, using mostly non-toxic solutions found within the home to create unusual markings, patterns and effects on metal surfaces.
“Thank you for an inspirational few days! I’ll never look into my kitchen cupboards in the same way again!”
– Workshop participant
On the final day, the group was joined at Ulster Museum by interested members of the public and goldsmithing community as Adi gave a talk on the philosophy of her work, making process and her unique approach to metals. Over 20 people then got to take part in some quick metal colouring, using items from the food cupboard.
“This is a unique opportunity for teaching staff to get time to expand their knowledge and get inspired with others. We would particularly like to thank Adi Toch for her time as well as the team at Ulster University and Ulster Museum for supporting the hub activities. It was fantastic to see how collaborative working can lead to new connections, creative ideas and future projects.”
– Helen Dobson, Programme Manager for the Goldsmiths’ Centre
Having launched the first hub in 2018 at the University of Edinburgh, over the next 3 years the Goldsmiths’ Centre is looking to establish geographical hubs across the UK bringing together networks of goldsmithing, affiliated industry and education with the aim of invigorating the trade, sharing knowledge, resources and local expertise and providing access to relevant training, support and opportunities.