Prepare to be captivated by an unparalleled display of natural grandeur as Wilensky announces “Magnificent Emeralds: Fura’s Tears,” a landmark exhibition poised to redefine our understanding and appreciation of these verdant treasures. This historic gathering of the world’s most exquisite emerald specimens, many unveiled together for the very first time, promises a breathtaking journey into the heart of the earth’s most cherished gems. Headlining the opening on September 26th is Ronald Ringsrud, a revered figure in the world of emeralds and author of “Emeralds: A Passionate Guide,” whose insights will illuminate the profound connection between humanity and these resplendent minerals.
A Myth Awakened: The Tears of Fura
Throughout history, a universal fascination has bound humanity to the dazzling allure of minerals, sparking adoration, wonder, and profound mythology. The exhibition’s evocative title, “Fura’s Tears,” draws inspiration from a poignant pre-Columbian legend. It tells the story of Fura and Tena, whose forbidden love and subsequent betrayal led to Fura’s inconsolable tears, which are said to have transformed into the very emeralds mined from the Colombian earth. This myth imbues each specimen with a timeless narrative, reminding us that these gems are not merely stones, but echoes of ancient tales and the enduring spirit of the land. Wilensky’s curatorial vision transforms these natural emerald specimens into majestic sculptures, presenting them as monumental works of art that transcend their geological origins.
A Legacy of Passion: Ronald Ringsrud and Clayhands
The opening reception for “Magnificent Emeralds: Fura’s Tears” is scheduled for September 26th, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. During this special evening, attendees will have the distinct pleasure of hearing Ronald Ringsrud share tales from his decades-long adventures in the emerald trade. Ringsrud, a world-renowned expert on the Colombian emerald market, whose seminal book remains an industry staple, brings an unparalleled depth of knowledge and experience to the exhibition. After thirty years dedicated to the emerald business, Ron channeled his passion into philanthropy, establishing Clayhands. This non-profit organization was founded with a profound mission: to give back to Colombia, the very source of many of the world’s most magnificent emeralds. The Colombian people embraced Clayhands’ noble goals, leading to the establishment of a sister Colombian non-profit foundation, also named Clayhands, to meticulously carry out its vital work on the ground. Ringsrud’s commitment extends beyond commerce; since 1986, he has been a trusted host and guide for visits to the bustling emerald marketplaces of Bogotá, fostering a deep and personal connection with the communities involved in mining these precious gems.
Supporting Colombian Communities Through Clayhands
Stuart Wilensky, President of Wilensky, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration: “When we embarked on this ambitious journey to create a major emerald exhibition, it became clear that we needed to offer our visitors a deeper, more empathetic understanding of the emerald’s world. Immediately, one name resonated: Ron Ringsrud, the author of ‘Emeralds: A Passionate Guide.’ The title itself speaks volumes – it’s about passion. We at Wilensky share a profound passion for minerals, and there is no one more qualified, or indeed more passionate, about this specific gem than Ron. When I approached him about speaking at our grand opening, to my absolute delight, his immediate response was an enthusiastic ‘Yes!’ His singular request was that we incorporate his remarkable charity, ‘Clayhands, Estructuras de Tierra.’ What finer way to honor both the emerald and Ron’s tireless dedication than to pledge a portion of our proceeds to such a truly deserving organization? The very communities who painstakingly extract these most precious gems from the earth, along with their families and friends, often face significant challenges and are in need of fundamental living assistance. Just as emeralds are inextricably linked to the earth and hold a deep, meaningful connection to the people of Colombia, so too is Clayhands. By harnessing the very earth beneath their feet, volunteers teach local residents sustainable techniques to construct and maintain homes built of ‘clay’ with their own ‘hands,’ fostering self-sufficiency and resilience.”
Clayhands, recognized as a 501(c)(3) non-profit, is a beacon of hope, collaborating directly with rural communities across Colombia. Their mission is centered on educating, demonstrating, and implementing ancient yet highly effective earth construction techniques. Through the creation of adobe structures, Clayhands is actively engaged in the preservation and transmission of invaluable local culture, simultaneously nurturing marketable skills, promoting self-sufficiency, and generating vital employment opportunities within the vibrant Andes communities. In a testament to this meaningful partnership, a significant portion of every “Magnificent Emeralds” sale will be directly contributed to Clayhands, providing essential support for their impactful mission and empowering lives.
A Celebration of Earth’s Immaculate Treasures
Ronald Ringsrud reflects on the upcoming exhibition: “While my primary focus over the past three decades has been on selling faceted emeralds, I take immense pride in knowing that several of the breathtaking pieces on display at the Wilensky Gallery are ones I personally brought forth from Colombia. To behold them once more, now presented within a grander, awe-inspiring context alongside other world-class specimens, is a truly special delight. People acquire gemstones for a myriad of reasons, but for most, their appeal lies in the profound connection they offer to the earth itself. To see these magnificent, immaculate treasures still embedded in their host rock, representing ‘the best of the best’ that nature has to offer, I perceive this event as a truly once-in-a-lifetime celebration of geological artistry and human endeavor!” This sentiment encapsulates the spirit of the exhibition – a tribute to the raw beauty of nature and the dedicated individuals who bring these wonders to light.
An Unprecedented Curated Collection
“Magnificent Emeralds: Fura’s Tears” offers more than just a viewing; it’s an immersive experience, a breathtaking journey through the world’s most exquisite emerald specimens, each a masterpiece in its own right. Likened in significance and intricate composition to the greatest works of fine art, this collection represents a curation first, bringing twenty-five of these unparalleled natural wonders together for public display. Among the stellar lineup, visitors will marvel at “The Three Amigos,” a truly singular specimen featuring three of the finest known emerald crystals ever discovered, still embedded within their original geological matrix. Another highlight includes a quartz specimen boasting an emerald inclusion – a phenomenon so rare that it is the only known example of its kind, regarded by numerous experts as the most exceptional mineral inclusion ever found. The exhibition also proudly features the “LKA” and “Stephenson” emeralds, which hold the distinction of being the second and fourth largest emerald crystals ever unearthed in North Carolina, respectively, underscoring the global reach and diverse origins of these incredible gems. This meticulous selection ensures that every visitor will witness objects of profound geological and aesthetic importance.
Experience the Wonder: Exhibition Details and Wilensky’s Vision
Exclusively showcased within the contemporary gallery space of Wilensky, “Magnificent Emeralds: Fura’s Tears” will run from September 26th through December 30th, 2019. The gallery welcomes visitors Monday through Saturday, from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, at its prime location: 173 10th Avenue, New York, NY, 10011. Wilensky has truly embarked on an exciting new chapter, having opened its gallery in the vibrant Chelsea art district of NYC. Here, exquisite minerals are presented not just as scientific curiosities, but as compelling works of art, positioned proudly among the world’s most distinguished art galleries. The gallery’s mission is to demystify and open up the mesmerizing world of exquisite minerals to everyone, making these natural wonders accessible and appreciated by a broader audience. Patrons can experience the serene beauty of these minerals displayed alongside neighboring galleries that showcase iconic artists such as Warhol, Basquiat, Pollock, and Picasso. The core ambition of Wilensky is to evoke the profound emotional impact typically associated with fine art through the sheer beauty and rarity of exquisite mineral specimens. It is not about competition with other art forms, but rather a harmonious convergence – a celebration where the raw artistry of nature stands shoulder-to-shoulder with human creativity.
Connect and Learn More
For any inquiries regarding the exquisite minerals on exhibit or potential sales, we invite you to contact Wilensky directly. You can reach them via email at [email protected], by phone at 646-822-0837, or by visiting their comprehensive website at www.wilenskyminerals.com.
To learn more about the vital work of Clayhands and how you can support their initiatives, please contact [email protected] or explore their website at www.clayhands.org.
For press inquiries or questions concerning this significant release, please direct your communications to Olga Gonzalez at Pietra PR, who can be reached at [email protected], or by calling 212-913-9761.
About Wilensky
Wilensky has ushered in a remarkable new era with the grand opening of its gallery, strategically located within the prestigious Chelsea art district of New York City. This visionary space is dedicated to showcasing exquisite minerals, presenting them within the esteemed context of the world’s leading art galleries, thereby elevating their perception as profound works of natural art. The gallery is passionately committed to demystifying and illuminating the mesmerizing world of exquisite minerals for a diverse and global audience. Here, visitors can discover stunning mineral specimens thoughtfully displayed in close proximity to neighboring galleries that proudly exhibit the masterpieces of iconic artists such as Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Jackson Pollock, and Pablo Picasso. Wilensky’s overarching goal is to achieve the profound emotional resonance and intellectual engagement typically associated with traditional art, but through the unparalleled beauty and unique formations of exquisite mineral specimens. This endeavor is not conceived as a competition between art forms, but rather as a beautiful and compelling convergence – where human creativity and the earth’s timeless artistry meet and inspire.
About Clayhands
Clayhands stands as an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, actively operating across both California and Colombia. Its core mission is to cultivate and propagate self-sufficiency among rural communities throughout Colombia and wider South America, primarily by imparting essential earth building skills. A notable achievement of Clayhands includes the construction of a spacious 32 by 50-foot teaching and meditation hall. This facility was designed to accommodate 110 boys, aged 9 to 17 years, as an integral component of the therapeutic community known as Hogares Claret. This impactful community is expertly managed by Father Gabriel Mejia and his dedicated foundation. Beyond this cornerstone project, Clayhands is deeply involved in a variety of other community-focused initiatives. These encompass direct building projects, comprehensive teaching programs, and active engagement within Colombia’s rural communities, particularly those nestled near the eastern region of Boyacá, which is renowned as a prominent emerald mining area. Through these diverse efforts, Clayhands continues to make a tangible and lasting difference in the lives of many, empowering them with sustainable skills and fostering resilient communities.