Pruden and Smith Workshop Tour

About

As third generation Goldsmiths, this special workshop tour beginning in the gallery, gives a unique insight into how this craft has developed over hundreds of years and especially the influence of the Arts and Crafts movement.

Pruden and Smith are contemporary jewellers with a proud heritage rooted in Ditchling's rich arts and crafts history.
Rebecca Smith and Anton Pruden set up their first workshop and gallery in Ditchling in 1988, continuing the silversmithing tradition of Anton's grandfather and uncle before him. Pruden and Smith later moved their workshop and gallery to its current building which was also once home to Ditchling Press. Anton's grandfather, Dunstan Pruden, was a member The Guild of Joseph and St Dominic on Ditchling Common. Dunstan joined the guild in 1932 after being invited by its founder, the sculptor, wood engraver, type-designer, and letter-cutter Eric Gill, while still at art college. The work and tools of Dunstan Pruden are on display at the Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft, why not start your day out in Ditchling with a trip to the museum to learn more about Dunstan Pruden, The Guild of Joseph and St Dominic and the Ditchling Press.
Pruden and Smith's workshop tour will give you a fascinating insight into the world of a contemporary jeweller, exploring how traditional techniques are used alongside state-of-the-art technology. You will also see some of the original tools from Dunstan's time that Pruden and Smith continue to use to this day.
Please book via the booking facility on our website.