AJDC President Linda MacNeil and AJDC member Merry Lee Rae have been named finalists in the 2020 Saul Bell Design Award.
Now in its 20th year, this international competition renews its challenge to jewelers and metalsmiths to push their creativity in new and exciting directions, to seize their moments to forge new pathways with their artistry. Since launching the competition in 2000, with the first winners announced in 2001, the Saul Bell Design Award has grown into one of the most sought-after honors for jewelry makers worldwide. Finalist’s pieces are judged on the quality and originality of design, as well as technical excellence.
The Saul Bell Design Award competition is unique for its intensive judging process. Two rounds are judged by a total of ten jewelers and industry leaders who are masters of their craft. In the initial round, five judges look for originality of design, proposed use of materials, and aesthetics to select finalists. In the final round, a second panel of five judges examines completed finalist pieces up close, in the hand, and on model, looking for successful incorporation of materials, wearability (except in the Hollowware/Art Objects category) and quality of workmanship.
Merry Lee Rae has been named a finalist in the Enamel Category. Linda MacNeil is a finalist in the Alternative Metals/Materials Category.
AJDC member David Freda was a judge in the final round of the award judging.
The winners will be announced on May 17, 2020 during an awards dinner in Albuquerque, NM.
