In this talk (delivered May 26, 2016), London-based silversmith David Clark presents and explains the innovative and subversive methods he has pioneered in contemporary silversmithing. Clarke shows the processes and results of experimenting fearlessly with silver and other materials such as lead and salt, and the reactions that these objects elicit from members of the public, buyers, and galleries. Notably, Clarke also shows film footage of his piece Dead on Arrival II being made, which is now part of Chipstone’s collection (2016.23a,b).

Zoom Milwaukee (May 25 – 29, 2016) was a 4-day symposium on craft and innovation hosted by the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee’s Jewelry and Metalsmithing program. Over 250 makers, writers, and innovators came together to discuss the future of craft in 10 lectures and 27 workshops. The Chipstone Foundation was a proud sponsor of the Zoom symposium.

David Clarke was educated at the Royal College of Art and has since gone on to be one of Britain’s most highly innovative silversmiths. Clarke’s creations have been pivotal in the renaissance of contemporary British silversmithing and metalwork.