Tony WilliamsTony Williams

"What is the book about?: Arguably one of the most distinctive and innovative jewellers working in New Zealand, Tony Williams has both expanded and enhanced New Zealand jewellery-making over the past 40 years. From exquisite dragonfly brooches to a jewelled serpent eating its tail, from exotic butterflies to bold necklaces, elegant bracelets and magnificent rings, here is an original artistic mind at work. He has not pandered to fashions or trends and has not succumbed to the conventions of either 'traditional jewellery' or of 'contemporary jewellery'. Tony Williams: Goldsmith explores the jeweller's inspired career as goldsmith and silversmith as well as his substantial contribution to the tradition of New Zealand jewellery-making. From the start of his training in Birmingham to the triumph of his Dunedin-based gallery, this book showcases Williams' most stunning and unique pieces, '. . . which seem to hover between the times of Beowulf and the Starship Enterprise.' His work reveals a playful, dazzling brilliance brought about by masterful craftsmanship. The book features an insightful essay covering the arc of Williams's career and artistic vision by award-winning novelist Emma Neale, along with another essay by art critic Rigel Sorzano that sets the work in the context of New Zealand's jewellery-making scene. Also included is a section on Williams's specialist enamel work (plique a jour) as well as the 'making' of a commissioned piece. It is sumptuously illustrated throughout with beautiful photographs and a selection of the jeweller's own working drawings. Tony Williams: Goldsmith celebrates the creativity, skill and imaginative vision of an artisan who follows his own pathway."--Publisher information.