David & Barry McCaul

Jewellery maker

©Tom Buck

©McCaul

©Tom Buck

Design meets craftsmanship

Barry and David combine their different skills
They use new technology for their pieces
They create with the customer in mind

David McCaul trained at the National College of Art and Design, the Design Craft Council of Ireland’s goldsmithing skills course and at London Metropolitan University. Outside of formal study he worked under master craftspeople in Germany and America. He brings these years of experience to McCaul Goldsmiths to create timeless pieces of unquestionable quality. His style is simple and contemporary, with a distinct energy and movement. Both the principles of design and traditional craft skills are at the forefront of his practice. With his brother Barry, whose knowledge of CAD brings an innovative edge, McCaul Goldsmiths offers customers stunning collections of jewellery, as well as bespoke services.

Interview

©McCaul

©Tom Buck

Do you come from a creative family?: My mother loved teaching art. Although my father was an engineer and worked with his hands, he didn’t encourage a career in art. While I perused making, Barry, my brother, was pushed towards computers. He would see me making and he started experimenting.
Do you have different roles?: Yes, I suggested that he come work with me, so he did intensive diamond setting in Antwerp and then after some training he worked in that. He brings computer skills too, CAD modelling, website development, photography.
How has your style developed over the years?: During my master studies my style began to develop into what it is today. Before that I was making big statement pieces, not thinking about wearability. In the MA I shifted my thinking towards flattering curves and shapes; things that have a natural flow.
What suprises people about your work?: Sometimes people don’t realise everything is made on site by hand. It is important to us that the quality is in our control. I spent a lot of time learning the skills needed so that we can execute the whole process: design, goldsmithing, and setting.

David & Barry McCaul are master artisans: they began their career in 1999 and they started teaching in 2008