31 March 2009
Alumni art work in G20 goody bags
PM selects ‘Best of British’ creative talent
The work of an MMU graduate will be handed out by Prime Minister Gordon Brown to world leaders - including US President Barack Obama – at the G20 summit dinner today.
Designer Ian McIntyre’s ‘Slush Cast’ pewter bowls - created using a process he perfected at MMU - are part of the welcome basket for delegates described by the Prime Minister’s spokesman as “showcasing the best of Britain’s creative talent.”
The unique bowls were spotted at upmarket London store Kelly Hoppen Interiors by Downing Street officials, who thought they would make perfect gifts for the world’s most influential political leaders.
Real honour
25 year-old Ian said: “I only received the order three weeks ago and I wasn’t sure if I would be able to finish it, because making the bowls usually takes a long time. But as soon as I heard who the clients were, I said yes straight away. It’s been three weeks of constant hard work but definitely worth it.”
Ian’s bowls are created by swirling molten pewter inside a mould to form a fine skin. The smooth exterior contrasts with the inner surface, which retains molten textures.
He added: “It’s amazing to think that Barack Obama could have my pewter bowl on display in the White House. It’s a real honour.”
World’s most powerful leaders
Ian graduated with a first class degree in Three-Dimensional Design and Creative Business Development from MMU in 2007, when the talented artist was also named best student entrepreneur.
Last year he was selected to take part in New Designers One Year On, which “show-cases a selected group of innovative, enthusiastic and creative makers”, and has been highlighted by the Crafts Council as an “Emerging Talent”. Ian is currently studying for an MA at the Royal College of Art in London.
Tonight’s VIP dinner precedes tomorrow’s G20 summit in London, with 20 of the world’s most powerful leaders jetting into the capital for the event. Guests will include French President Nicolas Sarkozy, Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
