national metalwork design awards 2010

museums sheffield is known for believing in the future of metal work in the UK. they started the metalwork design award in 2008 as a means of acknowledging the creativity of artists and craftspeople working with metal in the UK. the museum itself is home to one of the most important collections of decorative and domestic metalwork in the UK – one that exemplifies the city of sheffield’s rich cultural and historical association with the production of metal that dates as far back as the 13th century. comprised of over 12, 000 pieces, it pays tribute to the skill and craftsmanship of past british metalworkers as well as highlighting the most contemporary cutting edge designs by new emerging talents.

the award focuses attention on the abundance of new metalwork being created by contemporary artists, designers and manufacturers, both in sheffield and across britain. here is a look at the ten finalists of this year’s award:

david clarke, ‘feed me!’ © david clarke

jemma daniels, ‘water vessel’ © jemma daniels maya selway, ‘composition 1’ © maya selway

donald porritt, ‘curvilinear teapot and related jug and bowl’ © donald porritt