03/10/2026
This is my graduating year at Edinburgh College of Art, back in 2004. We had all just finished our show at New Designers, in London and were about to head out into the world as jewellers, designers, educators, creatives…
A couple of weeks ago, an announcement was made by ECA that the jewellery degree course is going to be closed (along with Textiles and Performance Costume). An end of an era for sure, but more than that, it is yet another blow to the wider world of the creative arts.
For generations, art degrees have provided a space for creativity, experimentation and craftsmanship - helping emerging artists and designers to develop skills that can shape the future of their discipline.
The loss of these courses means more than the closure of a few degrees. It risks the loss of specialist knowledge, facilities, teaching expertise and a unique creative community.
Jewellery is not simply about making pretty things. It is a study of our history, our culture. It tells the stories of our lives and those who have come before us. Supporting specialist education means supporting the next generation of makers, artists and designers.
Twenty-two years on, I still feel enormously grateful that I had the chance to study at ECA. The skills and experiences I gained over my degree course continue to influence me today.
📣 Please share and help raise awareness. I have attached the link to the Craft Scotland petitition below. It already has over 13,000 signatures but it needs more!
If you have studied, taught, worked in, supported or even been inspired by jewellery at Edinburgh College of Art, please add your voice.
Jewellery education matters.
Our creative community matters.
https://c.org/DMZRbBKzCZ