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Pursuing a dream, setting goals and striving for excellence the Opal Jewellery Design Awards Committee in their third year bubble with enthusiasm as the fruits of their labour are about to be borne.
The pathway to success with any venture is often blocked by hurdles. Like so many organisations seeking solutions and positivity are the strengths that they have built upon.
Foregoing the Awards in 2002 in favour of a biannual event will ensure their retention as the most prestigious opal only awards throughout Australia.
Utilising freeform undulating opal, establishing a market for this concept, returning top dollars for the producer and providing opportunities for previously unrecognised designers and jewellers were the ingredients that inspired Sue White and her father Alf to conceive the Opal Jewellery Design Awards Association.
Lucas Blacker and Nic Cerrone, Cerrone Jewellers, were equally enthused when it was discussed in 1999.
Ms White’s close association with the House of Cerrone and Senior Trade Commissioner Peter Linford, has opened the
door for Australian Jewellery Designers to show their pieces in “Artistic Australia in Korea”.
The House of Cerrone have offered to contact entrants from the OJDAA Gala Events to avail themselves of this opportunity.
Initially they will be asked to contribute to the carnet necessary for entry and return.
If this proves unsuccessful other ways of financing the venture will be pursued by the OJDAA.
“Artistic Australia” will be presented in Seoul, April 30 to May 10.
“A minimum of 20 pieces is necessary to be involved as a designer, but naturally a larger group of pieces will make your work stand out,” said Lucas Blacker.
“Artistic Australia” makes its debut in Korea after its overwhelming success in Japan.
“Australian Designers will work with Taj Enterprise to deliver a showcase of the finest Australian jewellery,” said Senior Trade Commissioner Lindford.
“The Korean economy is rebounding strongly and runs second only to China in terms of GDP growth in the region. Recently the IMF raised
the official credit rating for Korea and GDP forecast growth in 2002 was increased to 4.7%. This is evident in almost all sectors including consumer confidence and retail sales. It is an opportune time to be launching ‘Artistic Australia’ in Korea.
“So the stage is set, the key players are in place, the audience and media are to be gathered, the sales program to follow the event is poised to generate strong performance - to make the event a success we need you now. We look forward to your participation from Australia to make a broad introduction of the variety and style that comes from the diverse creativity that is Australia,” concluded Mr Lindford.
Whatever measure of success the ODJAA has achieved is gratifying.
2003 planning has commenced for a spectacular awards event.
The OJDAA will take an active role in the forthcoming Opal and Gem Festival with full details about to be released.
The opportunity to participate in “Artistic Australia” may have remained a dream without the strong support of Austrade, The House of Cerrone, Sue and Alf White and the OJDAA.
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