"Oliver Smith: The Best of Craft and Industry"
2004-11-24 until 2004-11-24
Craft ACT: Craft and Design Centre
Canberra City, AC, AU Australia

Award winning ACT designer, Oliver Smith, is currently expanding his silver smithing practice to develop a number of production cutlery designs combining the best elements of craft and industry. A series of limited edition stainless steel utensils will be officially launched at Craft ACT 6pm Wednesday 24 November 2004. This special event launches the cutlery accompanied by sumptuous delicacies suited for their particular use, presenting fine craft and design combined with food.

In creating this new range of cutlery, Smith has been inspired by internationally celebrated chef, Tim Pak Poy, of The Wharf Restaurant. Pak Poy and Smith have discussed the elements of what makes good cutlery over many dinners, and the outcomes have resulted in a synthesis of the objects and the senses.

Through the support of artsACT, Smith has researched ways to combine the beauty and warmth of the handmade with the strengths of industrial production methods. Produced in partnership with Hycast Metals with creative input from Managing Director John Kell, Smith aims to create a range of cutlery settings and tableware in a variety of materials, including high grade stainless steels, tarnish free silver alloys, titanium, Teflon and cast iron.

The first taste of Smiths’ limited edition stainless steel utensils, including the Sail Serving Spoon, Arc Cheese Knife and Treat and Sweet Condiment Spoons, will be at the product launch. All the cutlery will be stamped with the makers mark ‘O’, an alloy code and the year of manufacture and is available for purchase on the night.

Smith is a Masters Graduate of the Australian National University, School of Art Gold and Silversmithing Workshop. He has been the recipient of prestigious awards including the Graduate Award Scholarship, Object Magazine Award, as well as a High Commendation, Craftsmanship and Design Awards from the Goldsmiths Hall, London. 

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