Applying for Goldsmiths’ Fair: my experience – Kristina Merchant

If you’ve seen, or been lucky enough to wear, Kristina Merchant’s jewellery before, you’ll instantly recognise her distinctive style. Her wearable objects – bottle cap earstuds and cigarette brooches – channel the days of Kristina’s Nana Irene, who owned and ran pubs across Europe. Kristina captures the essence of this very British culture in her jewellery through her metalwork skills, humour and attention to detail.

Kristina (@kristinamerchant_) successfully applied for Goldsmiths’ Fair 2024 and was the recipient of one of 10 bursary stands. The Emerging Business Bursary supports talent at the beginning of their career in jewellery and silversmithing.

We asked Kristina about her application experience and what it meant to her and her business to exhibit at the Fair.

If you’re thinking of applying for Goldsmiths’ Fair and want to know more about the Emerging Business Bursary, read all the details here.

How many years have you been running your business?

I’ve been running my jewellery business since I graduated from The Glasgow School of Art in 2022, so it’s been about three years now. 

What made you apply to the Fair?  

I’ve shown my work at international contemporary exhibitions before, but I wanted to see how it would do at a professional selling fair. So, naturally, I applied to the best—Goldsmith’s Fair!

How did you hear about the bursary scheme? 

Some jeweller friends gave it great reviews, and after taking part in Shine (with amazing support from the Goldsmith’s Centre team), I decided to go for it.

Thank you, jeweller friends!

Shine is a business development programme run by the Goldsmiths’ Centre team. Read more about it here.

How did you find the application process?

Honestly, it was pretty straightforward! I have dyslexia, and like many creatives, I worried about that a bit, but it wasn’t an issue at all. Don’t stress—it’s manageable.

How did you choose which work to submit?

I chose a design that really reflected my business aesthetic. I wanted to challenge myself by working with new materials, so I created a piece called “Rosé”—a carved quartz ring with a ribbon of 9ct red gold.

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

The training was an incredible confidence boost—way beyond my expectations! It was such a bonding experience, working alongside the fellow bursary makers. Every session felt like a fun jewellery boot camp.

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

The bursary helped in so many ways. Having the funds meant I could push my materials further, and with the stand paid for, I had more time to focus on creating an eye-catching display. Last year, my setup was inspired by a pub bar top, blending my contemporary art exhibition experience with jewellery design. It was all about pushing the boundaries between art and design.

How has the Fair exposure impacted your client base?

The exposure was massive for me! It gave me the chance to really introduce my work to the fine jewellery industry. I’ve gained so much knowledge—plus, fun fact: turns out men are really into beer themed designs! Who knew?!

We would never have guessed…!

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

Relax! It’s easy to get stressed and push yourself to create a whole new collection, but the process is a beautiful learning experience. Also, don’t doubt the value of your materials—if the material speaks to you, it’s precious, no matter its monetary value. Enjoy the journey!

Also, when you’re at the Fair, take a minute to step back and take it all in. The building is full of marble and a great sense of history—it’s amazing. Make sure to go and meet the makers you’ve been following; it’s such a “pinch me” moment! I also loved visiting the Lost & Found exhibition by Adi Toch and David Clarke. Their contemporary silversmithing felt so warm and familiar—like being at home.

See Kristina’s work on her website and Instagram (@kristinamerchant_)

Find out more about applying for the Fair and our Emerging Business Bursary scheme