HandSHAKE – Prentice and prodigy

HandShake is an innovative collaboration between 12 selected New Zealand jewellery graduates and the heroes that inspire them. The invited jewellery graduates have been given the opportunity to make work side by side or by distance, alongside an established maker in a similar role to an apprentice.

The project uses new technologies to maximum effect, enabling the graduates to develop and refine work alongside their mentors in a virtual studio space with a website window.

At the start of 2011 Peter Deckers invited selected graduate jewellers to name the artists that most inspire them.
He then approached these distinguished and internationally-established jewellery and art icons, offering them the opportunity to act as mentors in this collaborative two-year project. The response was an enthusiastic ‘yes’ from the 12 idols. The result? A lively website, touring exhibitions, a catalogue, and an exceptional learning experience for all involved.