Applying for Goldsmiths’ Fair: my experience – Alewijn Slingerland

Alewijn Slingerland is a multi-award winning silversmith with a passion for design and fine craftsmanship. Originally from The Netherlands, he is now based in London after training in Holland and the UK.

In his design, Alewijn combines architectural and geometric principles with a touch of unpredictable and organic chaos of abstract expressionism from the early 20th century.

Alewijn successfully applied for Goldsmiths’ Fair 2025 and was the recipient of one of 10 bursary stands. We spoke to him about his application experience, and what it meant for him and his business to exhibit at the Fair.

How many years have you been running your business?

I have been making things out of silver and taking on commissions through college already, but I’ve been trading as a silversmithing business since leaving Bishopsland in Autumn 2023.

What made you apply to the Fair?  

Ever since visiting Goldsmiths’ Hall for the Fair for the first time in 2022 I was sold and knew I wanted to exhibit here. After living in London for a year, I applied for the Goldsmiths’ Fair early 2025.

How did you hear about the bursary scheme?

Several friends of mine have enrolled into exhibiting at Goldsmiths’ Fair in previous years with the bursary scheme and they first introduced me to it.

How did you find the application process?

Very clear and straightforward to be honest. Of course I was a little nervous applying for the first time, but in the end everything was perfectly manageable.

How did you choose which work to submit?

I selected five pieces which were all different enough to represent the different skills and designs, but were also coherent enough to form a collection.

How did you find the training given by the Goldsmiths’ Centre?

I found the training and mentoring from the team at the Goldsmiths’ Centre a great help. Especially all the session about sales, on zoom and in real life, were a great confidence boost!

Which aspect of the Emerging Business Bursary scheme did you feel was most valuable to you and your business?

The bullion loan has been a great help as this helped create a few larger scale pieces which definitely made a good impression on the Fair and draw in many (potential) customers. Also I highly rate the newly made friendships with the fellow makers on the Bursary programme. We had a good laugh together and learn from one another.

How has the Fair exposure impacted your client base?

The Goldsmiths’ Fair has been a good introduction for me for getting to know the different audiences interested in silverware and makes good sales which also extended my client base.

Was there anything about the Fair you wish you’d known? What’s your top tip for new applicants/exhibitors?

The biggest thing I can give to new applicants is: enjoy!
Of course, we all want to work hard and make money. But exhibiting here is also such a lovely time. You’ll meet many great silversmiths and jewellers. During the week we all had such a laugh with each other, the bonding between us exhibitors was great.
The preparation is key, but this will all work out as time goes on. No need to worry. There are always many helpful people in the community.

See Alewijn’s work on his website and Instagram (@alewijnslingerland)