Across time, space and culture, humans have invested gold and silver with meanings that far outweigh their physical properties. This lively conversation, chaired by writer and editor Debika Ray, explores how precious metals became symbols of power, purity and transformation, and the stories, rituals and histories that have imbued them with divine qualities. At a time of cultural homogenisation and mass production, this talk reflects on how these human qualities are manifested in the objects we hold so dear, and what they continue to mean for makers, collectors and society today.
Tickets are priced at £10 per person and include light refreshments.
Talk tickets do not provide access to Goldsmiths’ Fair.
Doors will open at 9:30 for a prompt 10:00 start
About the speakers
Debika Ray is a writer, editor and consultant specialising in the arts, with a keen interest in the Global South, diasporic communities, cities and material culture. Over the past 20 years, she has written for newspapers, magazines and websites ranging from The Financial Times, The Independent and Al Jazeera, to Wallpaper*, Kinfolk, and Architectural Digest. She has also held the role of editor at Crafts magazine, senior editor at Icon, and deputy editor at Disegno. Most recently, Debika was interim programme director of the Global Design Forum. She frequently chairs public conversations, delivers lectures, and participates in juries and interview panels in the sphere of craft, design and architecture.
Terms & Conditions
Tickets for “Metals, Myths, and Meaning: From Ritual to Craft” are priced at £10 per person and are non-refundable.
Tickets must be booked in the name of the person who is attending - photo ID that matches the name on the booking will be required to gain entry.
Tickets do not provide access to Goldsmiths’ Fair.
Security & bag policy
Goldsmiths’ Hall operates Airport style enhanced security procedures for all public events - these include a bag scanner and a security arch. Suitcases and items larger than a laptop bag are not permitted inside the building. Our cloakroom, situated downstairs, can be used free of charge for coats, bags and umbrellas.
Disabled access to Goldsmiths’ Hall
The main entrance to Goldsmiths’ Hall is on Foster Lane and may not be suitable for visitors who require step-free access. Those who are require level access from street level should ring the bell on Carey Lane, for assistance and access by lift. If you have any concerns or questions about visiting the building, please email us.
The Exhibition Room is on the first floor, and can be accessed by lift from within the ground floor lobby.