Two Ways of Making: BAJ Live Exhibition with Zopa Bank & David Michael Jewels

27 May 2026

The British Academy of Jewellery (BAJ) recently showcased Two Ways of Making, an exhibition presenting student work developed through live industry collaborations with Zopa Bank and David Michael Jewels,

The exhibition brought together projects exploring contemporary jewellery practice across both traditional handmaking and digital processes, with students working between bench skills, CAD modelling, 3D printing and wearable technology concepts.

 Industry collaboration driving creative practice

Through a collaboration with David Michael Jewels, students explored themes of emotion and human experience in contemporary fine jewellery.

The project combined conceptual development with practical making, resulting in pieces that translated personal narratives into wearable form.

In parallel, a live brief with Zopa Bank invited students to explore how jewellery might interact with everyday financial behaviour. Students also visited Zopa’s Canary Wharf headquarters, gaining insight into innovation, user behaviour and digital experience.

Using 3D printing, haptic systems and integrated digital components, students developed wearable concepts exploring the relationship between physical jewellery and user interaction.

Together, the projects highlight how jewellery design is expanding beyond traditional boundaries, combining material-led craftsmanship with technology-driven innovation.

Industry insight and recognition

The David Michael Jewels project was led by Michael Robinson (Boston, USA), who launched the brief, provided ongoing online feedback sessions, and supported students throughout development. The brief focused on how designers express what it means to be human through jewellery.

He selected Avant Williams as the recipient of a BAJ Outstanding Achievement award, recognising the conceptual strength and emotional depth of his work.

Zopa Bank Awards

The wearable technology brief, supported by Zopa Bank, was led by James Walker, Head of Current Accounts, who introduced students to ideas around innovation, user behaviour and digital experience.

Zopa winners (left to right): Veroni Dimitriov (runner-up), James Walker (Zopa Bank), Scarlett Smyth (winner), Nina Lenne (runner-up)

James Walker, Zopa Bank says,

“Working with students on a project like this allows us to see ideas far outside our usual perspective and think in ways that are radically different from our day-to-day work. The quality of work was incredibly high, both aesthetically and conceptually.”

Celebrating Creativity and Innovation

 Dr Matthew J. Williamson, PFHEA, Principal says,

“I want to give an enormous well done to our brilliant students for the quality and ambition of this work. It reflects the strength of their ideas, technical skill, and creativity, and I want to thank the team and tutors who have supported them in bringing these projects to fruition.”

View The British Academy of Jewellery

Source: BAJ