Student designs set to sparkle
High calibre — these were the words used by Latitude Gallery jeweller Steven Richards when he visited Nagle Catholic College to see the work of Geraldton’s up-and-coming jewellery students.
“They’ve really impressed me. Their designs are very original and for their first go at it, they have set a very high standard,” he said.
Year 10-12 students from Nagle were provided a black Abrolhos pearl on which to create their design, which will go on display at the gallery on Friday night.
The designs will remain on display for the following month.
Students then have the option to sell or take their pieces home.
The people’s choice piece will also be selected as the overall winner, with its designer awarded a l day of work experience with one of the gallery’s jewellers.
Year 10 student Edwina Halleen already spends a day a week working at the gallery and one day hopes to make a career as a jeweller.
“I’m not hoping to win, because I already do work experience there, but it’s just the fact people will get to see my design in a gallery,” she said.
“It was also really awesome to work with a pearl from the gallery.
“I really would love to be a jeweller one day and this is a great experience on what it’s really like.”
Edwina has decided to incorporate her pearl into the design of a dream catcher.
“We’ve been here every day for the past six weeks, but there’s still a bit I want to do to my design,” she said.
“I’ve got a few days left and I’m not completely happy with it, so I’m planning on changing a few things.”
Other students have worked their pearls into pendants, bracelets and rings and although they all seem to put themselves under pressure to create the perfect design, Nagle jewellery teacher Mark Lamb is even more worried than the students.
“I really want them to do well and show the full potential I know they have,” he said.
“I’m losing more of my hair just worrying about it (laughs).
“I’m already so nervous and I’m not even the one having my work on display . . . but the kids have already done so well and I am really excited for them to have the experience.”
To find out more about the exhibition, contact the gallery on 9964 6601.
