Inauguration of the international exhibition of the contemporary jewel, in Venice from September 30th to October 30th for Venice Design Week. The event is promoted by the Cultural Association Arte Design Venezia.
I DON’T SHINE, I have something to say; is the title selected for the international exhibition of the contemporary jewel to be held in Venice during Venice Design Week. The exhibition is made up of 50 jewels, and each one has got something to say.
In the wide contemporary art scenario, the jewel has become a surprisingly powerful media through which to convey deep messages and profound reflections regarding the world around us. Via the use of innovative materials and the adoption of unconventional techniques, the artists have given a voice to their jewels. The exhibited pieces are not merely ornaments, rather they represent visual declarations and invite reflection. By doing so, they prompt the beholder into acknowledging the positive impact each and every person can have.
“Italy is still cautious when discussing contemporary jewelry. The audience is not used to understanding and, as a consequence, appreciating it. Among the goals of the exhibition is proving to the visitors what such artistic creations are able to convey by raising the beholder’s awareness on different themes, all the while guiding them to understanding this extraordinary art form”, states Eleonora Varotto, curator of the exhibition.
Thus, the jewels become silent manifestations of universal beliefs.
Marie Wolf Jewels (Italy) focuses on the value of light as a metaphor for purity through her sculptures. Hennie Broers (Holland) focuses on the use of waste. In her works, organic materials turn into unique and original ornaments.
Beauty is the principal outcome for Renate Erlacher (Austria), whose necklaces invite to acknowledge and appreciate beauty. To Sophie Van Dooren (Holland)’s collection, fragility is the main theme as she tries to represent the vulnerability of the human soul in an ever-changing world. Giulia Fulgenzi | Maiesta (Italy)’s deeply visual works aim at breaking the relationship between the jewel’s weight and its value. The artist believes in the capacity of the material to tell a story. Di Ananieva (United Kingdom)’s creations urge to rise from one’s own ashes and acknowledge in death there is rebirth. About resilience are also Leticia Domingues (Germany)’s pieces as the materials chosen are light yet strong, thus creating an often precarious balance similar to that characteristic of every individual. The belief art and creativity are central to every person is of paramount importance to Fiona Frew (New Zealand), who shapes pieces that are inclusive as well as sustainable, that everyone can resonate with. Hairuo Ding (United States) always has an eye on herself and the other on the world, so as to stay connected to both dimensions. To Mahzad Morsali (Iran), art becomes a container to purity the soul from evil. In her search, the artist takes a look into the intertwined net of emotions and experiences that shape our lives. Mădălina Spiridon (Romania)’s creations urge the beholder to soul-search in order to find their own protective silver-lining. Through her residency in Italy and the consequent change in scenario, proved central to MackBecks (United States)’s research to homage the “bel paese” with jewels that echo serenity and inspiration. the little things NYC (United States) was inspired by crumpled paper as a reminder to appreciate, re-use and beautify imperfection. Eden Lennox (Australia)’s subversive jewels strike because of the materials she chose and for the punk style behind them. The conceptual pieces of Mariko Kumon (Spain) describe life with deep emotion and urge to value intuition when creating. Petra Mohylova (Czech Republic)’s rings represent an hymn to freedom of speech because they encourage one to tell one’s own story. Equinox (Romania) proposes jewels that celebrate the ancestral feminine energy. The exhibition’s final pieces are delicate creations by Niloofar Salehi (Iran), who reminds the world about the importance of taking action to solve the ongoing climatic crisis.
Giulia Fulgenzi
The selected jewels are homed in a prestigious location, serving as a treasure chest: the antique Nani Mocenigo Palace, currently Hotel Nani Mocenigo, within walking distance from Accademia Galleries, Peggy Guggenheim Collection and Basilica Santa Maria della Salute.
The project is curated by Eleonora Varotto, together with Lisa Balasso.
ARTE DESIGN VENEZIA
This cultural association promotes art and design, valuing Venetian artistic heritage. It manages art and design exhibitions, offering guided tours and a number of cultural activities to create a net among people, artists and artisans on a National and International level. Arte Design Venezia fosters events regarding art and design – among which the Venice Design Week – while participating in other design weeks all-year-around.
Representative photo: Mariko Kumon
NO COMMENT