FRED RICH

Enamel Design
Email: info@fredrichenameldesign.com
Web: www.fredrichenameldesign.com

Much of Fred’s work today is made to private commission, and examples of his work can be found in the Victoria & Albert Museum, in the British Museum, and in the collection of the Goldsmiths’ Company.

Fred studied in London at the Central School of Art, and then at Sir John Cass School of Art n the late 70′s and early 80′s. He set up his own workshop after leaving college, and it was right from the beginning that he started to develop his own enamelling technique – a variation of Cloisonné – areas of coloured enamel divided by wires fired into the enamel.

Fred best describes his style of enamelling as a cross between cloisonné and basse-taille – enamel on an engraved, carved, or etched surface. Each piece results from an incredibly labour intensive process.

Coupled with Fred’s breathtaking enamelling skills is his exceptional design talent. Much of the enamelled silverware is made to private commission, this includes not only the enamelled theme, but also the vessel itself. Commissioned pieces have included a wide spectrum of work from small beakers, through to a harlequin set of 6 goblets, or a pair of elaborate candelabra.

With any piece, the client can also have complete freedom to choose the enamelled theme. The design brief from clients can vary considerably, from wanting a very specific theme such as a vase with native British butterflies – each butterfly having to be anatomically correct – through to wanting Fred to capture “the spirit” of a particular theme, but leaving the final design to Fred. Enamelled scenes have included hobbies such as golf, sailing, shooting, or skiing, a client’s passion for frogs, the origins of cricket, the British countryside, flowers, or marine themes, to mention just a few.

Fred very much enjoys the interaction with clients, and often this can lead to the most spectacular pieces. Close client interaction also results in very personal pieces. Often Fred adds a secret, humorous reference to the client’s life, passions, or hobbies.