Bristol silversmith shines at Bishopsland

Silverware by Elizabeth Auriol Peers on display at Bishopland, Elizabeth Auriol Peers

Silversmith Elizabeth Auriol Peers from Bristol was one of only eleven graduates nationally to be given a place at the prestigious Bishopsland training workshops for silversmiths and jewellers in 2008.

A former London Metropolitan University student, Elizabeth's year-long residency was supported by £1,790 of funding from Arts Council England, South West through Grants for the arts. Based in Dunsden, south Oxfordshire, Bishopsland was founded by silversmith, jeweller and product designer Pope Makower and businessman Oliver Makower in 1993. The Bishopsland Contemporary Apprenticeship acts as a bridge between Art College and the realities of the commercial world.    

The training at Bishopsland is intensive and practical, teaching all aspects of running a successful business alongside specialist skills for professional practice. Elizabeth explains 'our first exhibition, Christmas at Bishopsland, was held a month after arriving. We had four weeks to prepare in which I produced my first three pieces in silver. We also learnt about all the practical things that are needed when taking part in a show.' She continues 'it was incredibly hard work - very intense but great fun and it set the pace for the year.'

The year at Bishopsland is likened to the second half of a traditional craft apprenticeship as Elizabeth explains 'my work developed a lot but in addition to this you learn to target what you make to an audience - to be saleable. The tutors are great - they all know so much and are incredibly generous with their knowledge.'

Bishopsland also offers its students the opportunity to take part in well established external shows such as Art in Action in Oxfordshire, the Henley Festival and shows at the Saachi Gallery. This year past and present Bishopsland students, including Elizabeth exhibited in Contemporary Silver at the Whiteley Silver Galleries at the V&A. Elizabeth concludes 'Bishopsland offers incredible opportunities to exhibit in prestigious places that would otherwise be impossible for someone at the start of their career.'

For more information visit www.bishopsland.org.uk