GEMZ

GEMZ is a talent development programme initiated by Current Obsession (CO) in 2020 to support a new generation of young makers as they develop their voices. The main goals of GEMZ are to foster relationships between young creatives, cultural institutions, and the industry, as well as to build resilient, scalable, and sustainable individual practices or brands. The name of the programme combines the definitions of ‘gem’ and ‘Generation Z’, a generation that offers a novel, multi-faceted perspective on the contemporary jewellery medium.

The Open Call for Cycle 4 is now closed. We will communicate results in September 2026.

The programme unfolds in three phases. EXPLORATION kicks off with online sessions from industry professionals, breaking down what actually means to have a sustainable and successful practice: legal non-negotiables, curation, ethical art practices, marketing and profiling. In DEVELOPMENT, you will map out a project plan and pitch a physical piece to create. Finally, in PRODUCTION, a select crew will bring those ideas to life supported by one-on-one and group mentorship.

Catch up on the last edition [here] or grab the Cycle III publication, GEMZ: WET, from the CO Store [here].