The 2005 Society of North American Goldsmiths Conference will be held June 22-25 at the Crowne Plaza Cleveland City Centre (formerly the Sheraton Cleveland City Center).

“Intersections” is the theme of the conference and it will be addressed by keynote speaker, Gijs Bakker, world-renowned Dutch jewelry, designer, and teacher. He will discuss the dynamic intersection between craft and design in his presentation, “Concept and Beyond: Crossing the Borders Between Design and Craft.” He will illustrate his theme with examples covering his 40-year career.

Other speakers and topics will include, David McFadden who will address the “blur zone” between art, craft, and design; Kathy Buszkiewicz who will discuss how her work challenges the concept of value; and Gretchen Gross who will examine contemporary enamel work

There will also be two panel discussions at the event, “Theory and Practice: A Dialogue Between Educators and Practioners,” and “The Price of Gold.”

The annual juried slide show “learning Curves,” will be presented by Tim Tatalick of Savannah College of Art & Design, showcasing student work.

A final night party will be held at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

For more information about the conference, contact conference director Kristin Shiga at 503-329-2352. For conference registration and hotel reservation, contact Complete Conference Coordinators at 630-637-8100, or at info@cccmeetings.com.

JCK