Eleni

Zolia

HNC Art & Design Course Lead

Biography

Eleni has always been passionate about various creative endeavours. Her journey into the world of jewellery began with vocational training in jewellery design and manufacturing in Greece, where she mastered traditional techniques such as repousse, mokume gane, reticulation, and filigree. Her expertise in metals was further enhanced by her degree in Chemistry from the University of Athens, which she pursued simultaneously.

Eleni then moved to the UK to continue her studies at the Birmingham School of Jewellery, where she earned a Master of Arts in Jewellery, Silversmithing & Related Products. There, she embraced a strong sculptural element in her work and experimented with various materials. Specialising in wax carving, she established her own practice and participated in numerous competitions and exhibitions. One of her notable achievements was being shortlisted for New Designer of the Year at the UK Jewellery Awards. Her extensive knowledge of art and design, combined with her proficiency in various 3D and 2D software, continually enhances her design and artistic development. Today, Eleni views jewellery as pieces of sculpture and art, intertwining her work with storytelling, as well as historical, contemporary, and pop culture.

As an Educator, Eleni has taught and developed courses at various levels, as a Tutor, the Subject Lead for Contextual Studies, and currently as the HNC Art & Design 3D Design (Jewellery Design & Manufacturing) Course Lead. Her philosophy, as both a maker and a teacher, emphasises not only the craftsmanship required at the bench and on the computer but also a comprehensive understanding of how jewellery, art, and design integrate and interact within the broader world.

Courses
  • HNC Art & Design 3D Design (Jewellery Design & Manufacturing)
  • London, Camden
  • Wax carving
  • Repousse
  • Computer Aided Design (2D and 3D)
  • Contextual studies
  • BSc in Chemistry, University of Athens, Greece
  • MA Jewellery, Silversmithing & Related Products, Birmingham School of Jewellery, UK
  • Commendation, Young British Silversmith Competition to Design a Caddy Spoon, The Society of Caddy Spoon Collectors
  • Brooches inspired by London Underground selected for Clerkenwell Design Week, Transport for London / Craft Central
  • Piece Shortlisted as Gift of the Year 2017, Fine Jewellery category, Giftware Association
  • Shortlisted as New Designer of the Year 2016, UK Jewellery Awards

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