Chance to learn from renowned international jeweller

Next month, Fio and the Sydney School of Jewellery will host master classes by international jeweller and entrepreneur Thomas Mann. The master class will be a rare opportunity for people to be taught by an extremely creative and experienced jeweller who approaches jewellery design and teaching in a very unique and innovative way.

In my second year of studies at the Queensland College of Art, I was lucky enough to meet Thomas and he was quite an inspiration to me and I believe influenced the way I approached my practice in a very positive way. For those of you who are interested in expanding or identifying their own style or design vocabulary, this is definitely a master class not to miss.

• Where: Fio, 6/65 James St Fortitude Valley
• When: Friday June 15 – Sunday June 17
• Time: 10-4.30pm daily
• Skill level: Intermediate – Advanced
• Length: 3 days
• Cost: $600 Standard. $555 Griffith University student or Fio enrolled student
• Read more about the workshop
• Visit Thomas’ website

The workshop is limited to 10 students. To enquire or enrol, contact fio (matt@fio-contemporary.com, 3852 3949).

Brush up on your soldering skills

Places are still available for the one-day soldering workshop to be held this Sunday 27 May at the fio workshop. Those who have some experience making jewellery and want to get better at this essential silversmithing skill are encouraged to come along. Details below:

• Hone Your Skills – Soldering
• Sunday 27 May 2012
• 10am-5pm
• $250
• Lunch included

To enquire or enrol, contact matt@fio-contemporary.com, 07 3852 3949.

This soldering workshop is part of the Hone Your Skills series of intensive workshops aimed at improving technique in particular aspects of jewellery making.

fio welcomes new teacher in 2012

Talented Brisbane contemporary jeweller and artist Madeleine Brown will be joining fio in 2012 to teach introductory jewellery making classes.

Madeleine has years of expertise and knowledge and we’re so excited to have her on board!

After graduating in 2001 from the Queensland College of Art, Madeleine spent several years working as a commercial jewellery designer in Australia and the UK.

Since establishing her design studio in 2006, she has concentrated on designing and handmaking bespoke commission jewellery pieces in silver, gold and platinum for private clients, as well as exhibition works and public art.

She is particularly inspired by textile techniques, moving parts and unusual textures. Madeleine currently works from her studio at her home in the bush on the outskirts of Brisbane.

Welcome Maddy!

2012 jewellery course dates

Pendant by past jewellery making student, Georgina Berkman

fio’s jewellery making course calendar for 2012 has been released.

fio will continue to offer 8-week introductory jewellery making and intermediate jewellery making courses throughout the year for beginners or those with experience.

The program includes:

• Introductory Jewellery Making (6-9pm, Monday and Tuesdays) – see 2012 DATES
• Intermediate Jewellery Making (6-9pm, Wednesday and Thursdays, Saturdays 10-1pm) – see 2012 DATES

Contact fio to enrol or enquire – courses@fio-contemporary.com, 3852 3949.

Stone Setting – this Sunday

The Hone Your Skills stone setting workshop is on at the fio workshop this weekend - and there’s one place still available for anyone interested. More information is available here or feel free to get in touch for a full breakdown of what’s covered (matt@fio-contemporary.com, 3852 3949).

The one day workshop runs from 10am to 4.30pm on Sunday 5 June. Like the name suggests, it’s a great chance to learn the basics of setting your own gems in jewellery pieces – from rugged rocks to sparkly stones.