(1936 – 2025)
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ian H. Stewart CM FSND, co-founder and former Chairman of Award Productions Ltd, who dedicated his life to the art of design and the commemoration of history through medals, coins, and memorials.
Ian enjoyed a distinguished career in design, earning an international reputation as a multi-discipline designer. His work spanned continents, serving as Head of Design for the Robinson-Dickinson Group in South Africa and as a senior designer for the Provincial Museum of Alberta in Canada. His expertise and artistic vision led to commissions from nations such as Malta, New Zealand, Australia, Macau, the Philippines, and Canada, solidifying his legacy in numismatic artistry. In recognition of his contributions, he was appointed a Fellow of the Society of Numismatic Artists and Designers in the United Kingdom.
During his tenure at Award Productions and into his retirement, Ian played a pivotal role in the design and production of medals honouring significant historical events, including the Normandy Campaign, National Service, and the Suez Canal Zone. His more recent works included the Queen’s Sapphire Jubilee and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medals. Beyond medals, his talent extended to monumental design, creating the National Service Memorial, the Normandy Campaign Memorial and the Memorial for the Queen Alexandra Nurses at the National Memorial Arboretum.
A devoted historian and advocate for remembrance, Ian served as a trustee of the Spirit of Normandy Trust since 1994, working tirelessly to preserve the legacy of those who served. His dedication was further exemplified through his design of the fourteen divisional signs in the British Memorial Garden in Caen, Normandy.
Ian’s passion for design and commemoration has left an indelible mark on history. He will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him and appreciating his extraordinary work.
