'An abundance of talent and innovation' Displayed at Glasgow School of Art’s Graduate Showcase

Iona Turner (22), a graduate of the Glasgow School of Art (GSA), showcased her necklace made out of seaweed.

Exhibiting at the 2021 online Elements Graduate Showcase exhibition, she said: “I like to go foraging for seaweed as a food source to dry and eat. And I’m also very interested in the idea of using materials in my design work that are sustainable and renewable, so I decided to experiment a bit.

“The seaweed preserves really well, has a wonderful texture and is very strong when it’s dried. I found it works really well for jewellery, it’s beautiful and very distinctive.

“And in terms of sourcing the material – it takes no land to grow, I only used what’s washed up so nothing is killed and I collect it myself so there’s no long supply chain.”

Nine other candidates were involved with the exposition. Including Scott Smith (23), an Artist in Residence at the GSA.

Scott said: “I love the idea of pieces that people will actually engage with – have out on the table or use for celebratory meals rather than just locked away in a cabinet. I also like my pieces to work outside as well as inside – so to be used round a campfire as readily as in a dining room.”

Ebba Goring, the Chief Executive of festival partners, the Scottish Goldsmiths Trust, said: “This year’s Graduate Showcase really shows what an abundance of talent and innovation we have among Scotland’s emerging makers and designers.

“Their inspirations range from Ancient Greek deities to archaeology and oceanography and many are making work that responds to themes of sustainability, climate change and reducing consumption. We encourage people to take time to explore the showcase and show their support for these incredible new jewellers and silversmiths.”