Two of the area’s leading designer-makers have teamed up for a prestigious London exhibition, which they are then bringing back home to Dorset for a free show during Purbeck Art Weeks. 27-31 May - The Courtyard Gallery & Workshop, Rogers Hill Farm, Briantspuddle
Furniture maker Simon Thomas Pirie from Briantspuddle and silversmith Karina Gill from Hazelbury Bryan are taking part in “Inspired 2015” at The Goldsmiths’ Centre in Clerkenwell, an exhibition of the finest modern furniture makers and contemporary silversmiths. The event is part of British Silver Week (19-23 May).
Karina is showing a range of silver bowls, displayed in a pair of cabinets designed and made by Simon Thomas Pirie in English walnut, sycamore and glass.
The pair are then transferring the exhibits back to Dorset where they will be on show alongside further pieces in Simon’s gallery and workshop at Briantspuddle from 27-31 May as part of Purbeck Art Weeks.
“Wood and silver make a really nice combination that bring each other alive,” says Simon.
“Karina is among the cream of Dorset’s designer-makers and I really respect her work. We’ve known each other for years and it’s lovely to have the opportunity to work together.”
Karina said: “I’m making a special silver bowl for the show inspired by Simon’s work. I admire his pieces for being so contemporary and slick.”
For Purbeck Art Weeks, Karina will be displaying her bowls, plus a range of jewellery with prices starting at £30. Simon will have a full range of furniture on display, including the desk he made with Makers’ Eye for St Hugh’s College in Oxford. This project won the bespoke furniture category of the national Wood Awards 2014. His furniture prices start from £400.
As part of Purbeck Art Weeks, there’s also a chance to hear Karina and Simon talking about the exhibition and their work on Thursday 28 May from 6-9pm at the Courtyard Gallery. Tickets available through Dorset Visual Arts, telephone 01305 853 100. Or see www.dorsetvisualarts.org/news/what-artists-really-do
