13/10/2026
Some places change the course of your life. Edinburgh College of Art was one of those places for me.
I arrived thinking I wanted to be a painter. A short course in jewellery and silversmithing during my foundation year changed everything. I fell in love with bringing designs to life in silver and gold, using skills passed down through generations to create something to treasure forever.
I was lucky enough to learn from the wonderful Dorothy Hogg, an extraordinary jeweller and such an inspiring teacher. Those years gave me the foundations to build Catherine Zoraida, and a respect for craftsmanship that still shapes everything I do.
Hearing about the planned closure of ECA’s Jewellery and Silversmithing degree, alongside Textiles and Performance Costume, is heartbreaking.
ECA has nurtured generations of exceptional makers. When we lose opportunities to learn these crafts, we risk losing precious knowledge and the chance for future makers to discover their calling.
I hope the University of Edinburgh will reconsider. Future generations deserve the opportunities we had.
For Dorothy, for everyone who has taught and inspired us, and for those still waiting to begin. 💛
Please support Craft Scotland’s campaign and sign and share the petition.