On September 25, 2026, the historic setting of the Bad Schussenried monastery provided a very special reason to celebrate. During the grand opening of the Baden-Württemberg State Exhibition for Arts and Crafts, Frieda Dörfer was awarded the Baden-Württemberg State Prize for her outstanding achievements.
These three brooches, themed "Cloudy Lightness," received the award. Materials and techniques from left to right: 1st and 2nd: guilloché and chased silver, stainless steel; 3rd: enameled tombac, enamel, and stainless steel. You can find them and many other works by Frieda at Schmuck Fritz — Fritz Goldschmiede & Mahnkopf Schmuckgalerie in Berlin at Oranienplatz, Dresdener Str. 20, 10999 Berlin.
Congratulations, dear Frieda!
You can see the award-winning pieces and many other masterpieces in person until November 22, 2026. The exhibition at the Bad Schussenried monastery impressively demonstrates how modern, vibrant, and versatile true craftsmanship is today. The creative spectrum is vast, ranging from the finest jewelry and utensils to ceramics, textiles, wood, stone, and even delicate basketry, glass, metal, paper, and leather.
'Others & Me' Podcast with Frieda Dörfer
If you would like to learn more about Frieda, it is best to listen to the 'Others & Me' podcast. In it, Sarah Cossham speaks with goldsmiths and artists in the field of contemporary jewelry about their working methods, materials, and ideas. For episode 025, she visited Frieda Dörfer in her studio in Pforzheim.
It becomes clear how much experimentation, precision, and feeling for materials go into this rare technique — and how new design possibilities emerge from historical tools, which can appear surprisingly current and lively in contemporary jewelry.
It is best to listen for yourself on Spotify!
Cloud Brooches © Frieda Dörfer
Photos © David Fischer
