Jewellery maker Makila Nsika has won the New Ashgate Gallery’s Rising Stars Award for 2025.
The results were announced during the launch of the Rising Stars exhibition at the Farnham gallery on March 15.
Makila’s striking pieces reclaim Congolese palm kernels, a by-product of traditional farming, into contemporary jewellery exploring environmental responsibility and cultural identity.
Combining ethical production and traditional skills, Makila’s work impressed the judges for its originality, craftsmanship and narrative strength. She receives a solo exhibition at the gallery in 2026.
Ceramicist Zillah Puri was runner-up for her emotive figurative sculptures inspired by votive offerings. Her work explores resilience, loss and healing through beautifully modelled clay forms that connect the physical body with the spirit.
Makila and Zillah also receive a professional development session with Caroline Jackman, a leading craft business expert with more than 20 years of experience supporting makers in building sustainable careers.
Xinyi Chen received a special commendation for Artificial Intelligems, her jewellery series transforming discarded electronic components into carefully crafted contemporary adornments, questioning the material value of technology and our relationship with it.
Following an open call attracting 120 applicants, a shortlist of 20 was selected by Sharon Ting and Debra Allman from the University for the Creative Arts in Farnham, New Ashgate Gallery director Dr Outi Remes, and craft expert Dan Goode.
Dr Remes said: "Rising Stars is a vital platform to discover the next generation of craft talent. Farnham is proud to be the UK’s World Craft Town, and supporting emerging makers is at the heart of our work. These artists are redefining material practice, sustainability and storytelling in contemporary craft."
Running alongside the Rising Stars 2025 exhibition is Trajectory - a solo exhibition by ceramicist Jess Skelton, who won Rising Stars 2024.