Young creators
In its fifth anniversary edition, SIJW 2026 is once again opening up space for the youngest generation of creators—high school and university students—as part of its main exhibition. This year's call for entries once again attracted a large number of young designers, confirming that interest in contemporary jewelry design among young people is steadily growing and that the festival is becoming a key springboard for new talent.
The expert committee, led by renowned designer Dalija Sega, had the difficult task of selecting from among the many high-quality entries those that most convincingly reflect freshness, technical skill, and innovation. The selected works are on display at the main SIJW exhibition at the Rog Center, where they are presented alongside established international and domestic authors.
An important pillar in supporting new generations remains the Jewelry Lab, which operates as part of the Rog Center. This creative space, made possible by Zlatarna Celje, has been encouraging young designers to explore, experiment with materials, and develop innovative approaches from the very beginning, thereby playing a key role in shaping the future of Slovenian designer jewelry.
Expert committee: Dalija Sega, Anja Radovič, Olga Košica
Selected young creators SIJW 2026:
Korina Kotnik, Šolski center Rogaška Slatina
Neža Mia Andlović, Academy of Fine Arts and Design (UL ALUO)
Tia Štefančič, Faculty of Education, University of Primorska (UP PEF)
