Enamelling
Enamelling is a fascinating and accessible technique in which glass is fused to metal. The result is a hard, glossy and colourful finish that is resistant to wear and high temperatures. Thanks to these qualities, enamel is used not only in industry but has also been applied for centuries by artists and designers.
You can find enamel on a wide range of objects such as jewellery, lockets, watch cases, vases, bowls and decorative panels. It combines technical precision with great artistic freedom and offers countless possibilities in terms of colour, texture and form.
The technique
In enamelling, finely ground glass powder or an enamel paste is applied to a metal or ceramic surface. In the kiln, the glass melts at a high temperature and bonds to the surface, creating a durable and glossy layer. There are various enamelling techniques and applications, each with its own character and possibilities.
The workshop
Who is it for?
The workshop is suitable for both beginners and those with a basic knowledge of jewellery techniques.
What will you learn?
You will become familiar with several enamelling techniques. As a participant, you can decide which techniques you would like to learn or further develop. Below is a selection of the possibilities with enamel:
During the workshop, you can learn enamel painting (email des peintres). You will discover how to use enamel powder both dry and wet on copper – by sprinkling, stencilling or painting. You mix finely ground enamel powder with oil or water and apply it to the metal. Your design is then fired in the kiln at high temperature, where the layer fuses. This art form combines painting and enamelling and results in colourful creations.
You can also work with cloisonné enamel. In this technique, thin metal wires are used to create small cells (cloisons) on a silver surface. These cells are partially filled with enamel. The piece is then fired in the kiln and a new layer of enamel is applied. This process is repeated layer by layer until the cells are completely filled. It is a time-consuming but rewarding art form that allows you to create refined and colourful pieces.
Other enamelling techniques such as basse-taille, plique-à-jour or champlevé are also possible.
Tutor
Annika Ingelaere is a jewellery designer with experience in jewellery and object design. She studied at Sint-Lucas in Ghent, d’Academie in Sint-Niklaas and PXL in Hasselt. She regularly exhibits her work and frequently leads workshops.
Practical information
• When: 18–19 August and 20–21 August
• Time: 9.30 am to 4.30 pm
• Location: DIVA atelier, Kaasstraat 13, 2000 Antwerp
• Price: €235
Registration
There are 8 places available per workshop. Please register in good time.
In the webshop, you purchase one ticket for August 18–19 and one ticket for the period August 20–21. Would you like to join us for all four days of enamelling? Then simply purchase both tickets.
More information
Do you have a question?
Email: atelier@divaantwerp.be
