Jacobs the Jewellers, Reading’s oldest independent jewellery retailer, this week announced the start of its annual Young Designer competition with 2019 seeing the largest field of entrants in its five-year history.

The 4-week event based in the renowned Reading store features live craft demonstrations and a VIP winners’ event at 2.30pm on Friday 28th June leading into the ‘Open for Art’ event in the town centre the following week.

With a record-breaking 27 entries being exhibited in store, early visitors have been amazed at the craft, skill and imagination on show at Jacobs from this talented group of emerging artists.

14 emerging designers at The Bishopsland Educational Trust, a jewellery design postgraduate skills provider based in South Oxfordshire, are showing in competition one new silver design and one piece of jewellery at Jacobs the Jewellers, in the heart of Reading town centre. Open to the public between
10th June and 8th July, visitors in the first 3 weeks will be able to vote for their favourite designs.

On Friday 28th June, at 2.30 pm several of the younger makers will be demonstrating traditional craft skills in store at Jacobs. At 3.30pm votes will have been tallied: the winners will be announced with the events’ supporting partners. The winner of each category will win a £250 voucher to spend on tools to further their career, the runner up £100.

The last week of the exhibition joins with Reading’s established ‘Open for Art’ programme, curated by Jelly Arts, in showcasing art in unusual spaces.

Adam Jacobs, partner, Jacobs the Jewellers commented: “It’s hard to believe our competition is 5 years old and we’re amazed to see so many entries, with all at such a high standard. I know our customers are so excited to see these new talents at such early stages of their careers. I’m grateful to all our
partners for their support in creating such a great event.”

Peter Taylor, Director of the Goldsmiths Centre said: “The Goldsmiths’ Centre is delighted to be supporting a competition which chimes with the charity’s mission to support young emerging makers. We congratulate the 14 designer makers taking part in this year’s Young Designer competition and look forward to seeing their exceptional craft on display.”