Featured Artist
Stuart Cairns
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Artists Biography:
Stuart Cairns works as a silversmith in County Down, Northern Ireland who combines natural materials and found objects alongside precious metals to create artefacts in the tradition of tableware. After previously completing a degree in Economics and working as a landscape gardener Stuart returned to college to study silversmithing and Jewellery in the University of Ulster, graduating in 2000 with a first class Honours degree. On leaving he won the BT millennium award of art and design and the RUA presidents prize and went on to set up his workshop.
In 2004 he returned to college completing his Masters degree in 2006, winning the Association of British Designer Silversmith’s award for new work in silver at the New Designers fair in London. Since graduating Stuart has been involved in numerous group exhibitions, has held 2 solo exhibitions and completed work for business and public sector clients including Jury’s Hotels and The Braid Civic Centre in Ballymena. His work has been purchased by the University of Ulster as well as a number of private collectors.
As part of August CRAFT MONTH 08, Stuart Cairns’ work will form part of the University of Ulster Silversmithing Exhibition at Hillsborough Courthouse, 01 - 26 August 2008. The exhibition seeks to challenge the viewer’s perception of modern silverware, creating intrigue and engaging the user in the dining experience.
To find out more about what’s happening during AUGUST CRAFT MONTH 08 visit www.craftni.org
