The exhibition accompanying the 2026 Friedrich Becker Prize presents a diverse selection of contemporary works from the international jewellery and design scene. The focus is on pieces that impress not only through their high standard of craftsmanship but also through their creative originality. They highlight the fascinating interplay between technique, form and artistic expression, and open up new perspectives on a field that is constantly evolving.
The strong presence of graduates from the campus is particularly encouraging: with Sharareh Aghaei, Catalina Brenes, Arianaz Dehghan, Nikita Kavryzhkin, Mira Kim, Gina Nadine Müller and Sonia Pibernat, several former students are among the nominees and are helping to raise the campus’s international profile.
To mark the tenth anniversary of the award, not only will a prize of 10,000 euros be presented, but the dynamism and future viability of contemporary jewellery art will also be celebrated. The strong response is reflected in the approximately 150 entries received from Europe, Asia, North America and Australia. A jury of experts, comprising Paul Derrez, Prof. Melanie Isverding and Dr Christianne Weber-Stöber, selected 48 entries by a total of 49 artists for the shortlist.
The Friedrich Becker Prize has been awarded by the Society for Goldsmithing (Gesellschaft für Goldschmiedekunst e.V.) since 1999 and promotes international exchange within the field. It was established by Hildegard Becker in memory of Friedrich Becker, a pioneering goldsmith and designer of kinetic objects.
The awards ceremony will take place on 9 May 2026 at 6.30 pm in the Ruine der Wallonischen Kirche in Hanau. The award winner will be present in person on the evening. The event will be accompanied by music from the Persimon ensemble of the Bridges Chamber Orchestra from Frankfurt. Speeches will be given by representatives from the worlds of culture and local government, including the President of the Society for Goldsmithing (Gesellschaft für Goldschmiedekunst e.V.), the Mayor of Hanau and the management of the Deutsches Goldschmiedehaus Hanau.
Alongside the awards ceremony, the nominated works will be on public display at the Deutsches Goldschmiedehaus in Hanau until 10 pm.
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