Discover the Future of Wearable Art: MAD About Jewelry 2020 — A Virtual Global Showcase
Experience Unparalleled Craftsmanship: MAD About Jewelry 2020 Goes Virtual
New York, NY – The Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) proudly presents MAD About Jewelry 2020, a groundbreaking virtual exhibition and sale designed to celebrate the extraordinary craft of artist-made jewelry. In a year that demanded innovation and adaptability, MAD transformed its highly anticipated annual event into an accessible online experience, featuring over 40 of the world’s most inventive contemporary jewelry artists. This dynamic virtual platform not only broadens the reach of these talented makers but also reinforces MAD’s unwavering commitment to showcasing the intersection of art, design, and craftsmanship on a global scale.
From October through the end of the year, art enthusiasts and collectors alike are invited to immerse themselves in a curated selection of exquisite wearable art. The virtual event commenced with small groups of artists unveiling their unique creations on the museum’s official website. These captivating presentations rotated every two weeks, introducing fresh perspectives and new collections to an eager audience. This continuous refresh ensures a vibrant and ever-evolving showcase, culminating in mid-November with a grand presentation of work from all participating 2020 artists, including exclusive new pieces, accessible online through December 31st. MAD About Jewelry 2020 represents a pivotal moment in the art jewelry world, demonstrating resilience and creativity in connecting artists with a worldwide audience.
Engage with Visionaries: Insights from the World of Contemporary Jewelry
Beyond merely presenting works for sale, MAD About Jewelry 2020 offers an unparalleled opportunity for direct engagement with the creative minds behind these captivating pieces. Attendees are encouraged to join a series of lively virtual conversations led by Bryna Pomp, the esteemed curator of MAD About Jewelry. Pomp, known for her profound insights and passion for contemporary craft, guides discussions with many of the featured artists. These sessions provide an intimate look into their artistic practices, design philosophies, and the inspiration that fuels their innovative creations. Participants gain a deeper understanding of the intricate processes involved in making art jewelry, from initial concept to final execution.
Mark your calendars for key interactive events that promise to enrich your virtual exhibition experience. Tune in on October 23rd to meet the next cohort of four exceptional artists, delving into their unique visions and techniques. The celebrations extend into the holiday season with a special final holiday trunk show on December 1st, offering a perfect opportunity to acquire distinctive gifts and support the vibrant community of art jewelers. Every purchase made through MAD About Jewelry 2020 directly benefits both the artists, empowering them to continue their craft, and the Museum’s vital educational programs, ensuring the perpetuation of art and design appreciation for future generations. This symbiotic relationship underscores the event’s mission to foster and sustain the creative ecosystem.
A Global Tapestry of Innovation: Celebrating Diverse Materials and Techniques
MAD About Jewelry stands as a testament to the global intersection of craft, jewelry, and fine art. The 2020 edition proudly shines a spotlight on makers from an impressive 17 countries, representing a diverse array of cultural influences and artistic traditions. This international representation highlights the universal language of creativity and the endless possibilities within the realm of wearable art. The jewelry presented is a masterclass in material exploration, pushing the boundaries of what is traditionally considered suitable for adornment.
From the timeless elegance of traditional metals like gold and silver, often paired with exquisite precious and semi-precious stones, to the cutting-edge innovation of 3D-printed nylon, the collection showcases an astounding breadth of materials. Artists skillfully incorporate unexpected elements such as fine Italian leather, reclaimed materials, textiles, glass, and even unconventional industrial components, transforming them into pieces of profound beauty and conceptual depth. This fearless experimentation with materials challenges conventional notions of luxury and value, placing emphasis instead on artistic vision, craftsmanship, and narrative. Each piece tells a story, reflecting the maker’s personal journey, cultural heritage, and contemporary commentary, making MAD About Jewelry a true celebration of material ingenuity and artistic expression.
Spotlighting Excellence: The 2020 Featured Artists
In alignment with the Museum’s core mission to champion makers who demonstrate exceptional craftsmanship, innovative material use, and a meticulous design process, this year’s MAD About Jewelry collection is a testament to global talent. The curated selection features a remarkable roster of artists, each bringing their unique voice and aesthetic to the forefront of contemporary art jewelry. From established masters to emerging talents, these artists push creative boundaries and redefine what jewelry can be.
The extensive list of participating artists for 2020 includes: Abby Mosseri (United Kingdom), Anna Porcu (Italy), Carmen Tapia (Mexico), Celeste Mogador (France), Chao-Hsien Kuo (Finland), Claire Underwood (United Kingdom), Danielle Gori-Montanelli (United States), Danni Schwaag (Germany), Daphne Krinos (United Kingdom), Dave & Roberta Williamsons (United States), David Asenjo (Spain), Deborah Tseng (United Kingdom), DeeLyn Walsh (United Kingdom), Eduardo Herrera and Cristina Romo (Mexico), Ela Cindoruk (Turkey), Emily Thatcher (United Kingdom), Esther Ortiz-Villajos (Spain), Eszter Sára Kocsor (Hungary), Evgeniia Balashova (Russia), Ezgi Okur (Turkey), Francesca Marcenaro (United Kingdom), Giulia Boccafogli (Italy), Hye Jung Sin (South Korea), Iker Ortiz (Mexico), Iraia Aizcorbe (Spain), Jeemin Jamie Chung (South Korea), Jennifer Merchant (United States), Jennifer Mulli (Kenya), Jil Koehn (Germany), Joanne Thompson (United Kingdom), Jocely DeSisto (United States), Jorge Gil (Cuba), Katrin Zimmermann (United States), Laura González Sanz (Spain), Luz Arias (Argentina), Marion Lebouteiller (United Kingdom), Marta Edöcs (Hungary), Mia Kwon (Germany), Miki Asai (Japan), Neung Wi Kim (United Kingdom), Orsolya Kecskés (Hungary), Osvaldo Escanés (Spain), Paula Giecco (Argentina), Petra Bishai (United Kingdom), Rhona McCallum (United Kingdom), Ruth Leslie (United Kingdom), Uli Rapp (The Netherlands), and Yvonne Gilhooly (United Kingdom). This impressive list underscores the global reach and diverse talent that MAD About Jewelry consistently attracts, making it a pivotal event for discovering the next wave of art jewelry trends and supporting individual artistic journeys.
MAD’s Enduring Legacy: Championing Art as a Wearable Medium
The Museum of Arts and Design holds a distinct and unparalleled position within the American museum landscape. It is the sole American institution to house a dedicated gallery for the display of both temporary jewelry exhibits and its own extensive collection of studio and art jewelry. This commitment to the medium is evident in its rich history, having presented more than 150 exhibitions focused on art jewelry over the years, alongside a permanent collection boasting over 950 remarkable pieces. This dedication firmly establishes MAD as a preeminent authority and advocate for the field of contemporary jewelry, showcasing its evolution and impact.
Reopening its doors on September 17th, the Museum continues to honor and explore the profound concept of art as a wearable medium through its current, critically acclaimed exhibition, “45 Stories in Jewelry 1947 to Now.” This compelling exhibition, currently on view, meticulously highlights MAD’s significant contributions to the advancements of the field. It adeptly contextualizes the bold and often experimental practices of its most compelling artists within key historical moments, illustrating how art jewelry has mirrored and influenced broader artistic movements and societal shifts. Through such exhibitions, MAD not only preserves the legacy of art jewelry but also actively shapes its future, inspiring new generations of makers and appreciators.
MAD About Jewelry 2020, even in its virtual format, encapsulates this spirit of innovation and dedication. It serves as a vital platform for artists to connect with patrons, for collectors to discover unique treasures, and for the public to engage with the dynamic world of art jewelry. By supporting this event, you contribute to a legacy of artistic excellence and ensure that the powerful stories told through wearable art continue to resonate across the globe.