Aims and categories of the competition
The organisers of the National Competition for Goldsmiths and Jewellers „Amber Craft” named after Karol Kowalski are: The Goldsmiths and Jewellers Sector Commission at the Pomeranian Chamber of Crafts of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, the Pomeranian Chamber of Crafts of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises, and Międzynarodowe Targi Gdańskie SA. Its main objective is to promote the professional skills of goldsmiths and young apprentices in goldsmithing, specialising in traditional and modern goldsmithing techniques. The competition takes place in two age categories:
• Juniors: individuals learning or starting to learn a trade up to the age of 22.
• seniors: goldsmiths and amber craftsmen holding a master craftsman's diploma or a journeyman's certificate.
Each participant may submit up to four works, which must include amber elements and should not have been previously exhibited. The works are judged on originality, precision of execution, and the skillful combination of amber with other materials, such as precious metals or gemstones.
History and significance of the competition
The „Amber Craft” competition is an important element in promoting Polish amber craftsmanship, highlighting the rich traditions and skills of local artists. Since 2024, the competition has been named after its originator, Karol Kowalski, who passed away in 2021. Kowalski was a goldsmith deeply committed to promoting craftsmanship and vocational training, and his contribution to the development of the competition is invaluable. The themes are chosen in such a way that young artists present a modern approach to a traditional material, creating unique and stylish accessories, while senior participants have the opportunity to demonstrate their mastery of goldsmithing techniques.
RECOMMENDED: 20 years of the National Goldsmiths and Jewellers Competition Amber Craft
The impact of the competition on the development of amber craftsmanship
The „Amber Craft” competition plays a key role in promoting and developing amber craftsmanship in Poland. Thanks to it, young artists have the opportunity to present their skills to a wider audience, gain valuable experience, and establish contacts with experienced masters. In turn, for seniors, it is an opportunity to share their knowledge and experience, as well as to further improve their craft.
Furthermore, the competition contributes to the maintenance and promotion of amber traditions, while simultaneously encouraging innovation and the search for new forms of artistic expression. As a result, Polish amber craftsmanship is constantly evolving, combining tradition with modernity.
22nd edition of the „Amber Craft” competition”
The theme for this year's edition was „Amber Contrasts – Jewellery”. The jury awarded the following prizes and honourable mentions:
Senior awards:
Distinctions in the senior category:
Distinction for the work „With Contrast” – Dorota Cenecka
Award for the work „Difference” – Dominika Gawlak-Długosz
Distinction for the work „Amber Spider Fern Collector” – Krzysztof Konrad Bondaruk
Junior awards:
Distinctions in the juniors category:
Distinction for the work „Song of the Shipwrecked” – Emilia Katka, a student of the Jacek Malczewski State Secondary School of Fine Arts in Częstochowa
Award for the work „Golden Shine in a Silver Frame” – Karolina Siwiak, student at the Jacek Malczewski State Secondary School of Fine Arts in Częstochowa
Commendation for the work „The Bloom of Permeating Matter” – Karolina Siwiak, student at the Jacek Malczewski State High School of Fine Arts in Częstochowa
The „Amber in Craftsmanship” competition is a unique event that not only promotes Polish amber craftsmanship but also inspires future generations of artists to creatively use this unique raw material. A review of selected works created over the 20 years the competition has been held can currently be seen at the jubilee exhibition in the Amber Museum in Gdańsk. The award ceremony traditionally took place at the AMBERIF SPRING fair, where the works were presented.
