It was a dazzling time when the Museum of Arts and Design held its annual ‘MAD About Jewelry’ exhibition and sale dedicated to contemporary jewelry.
From May 5 to May 9, 45 artists from 25 countries showcased one-of-a-kind wearable works created from materials such as porcelain, paper, recycled metals, textiles, glass, and reclaimed objects. Every piece told a story worthy of our attention. From big and bubbly to small and dainty, the artists who created them explored the meaning of humanity in a beautiful way.
“This is truly an international event,” said MAD Director Tim Rodgers, “and if you have been keeping up with current events, you’ll know that it wasn’t easy to get so many artists from around the world here for you to see their beautiful jewelry. If ever there was a time to support artists, this is it.” The opening of MAD About Jewelry was celebrated with a benefit on May 5, as well as a luncheon hosted by Chair Emerita Barbara Tober on May 7.
Barbara Tober, Louis Bofferding, Ricky Clifton (Courtesy Patrick McMullan/PMC)
The philanthropist put together a lively luncheon featuring a conversation between writer Lynn Yaeger and jeweler Judy Geib alongside two of this year’s participating artists, Raluca Buzura and Sabrina Formica. Senior Curator Barbara Paris Gifford introduced the speakers.
“We thought it would be fun for each of the jewelers to show two pieces – one they considered a triumph, and another that was a challenge,” said Yaeger, “You can’t really define inspiration, but when you see something and it gives you that crazy thrill, you know it.” Guests at the lunch included Gigi and Harry Benson, Cece Black, Jana Bullock, Ron Chereskin, Joan Hardy Clark, Michele Gerber Klein, Susan Gutfreund, Joan Horning, Margo Langenberg, Laura Lobdell, Gilian Miniter, Michael Musto, Tinu Naija, Katie Ridder, Ben Rodriguez-Cubenas, Marc Rosen, Bianca Pratt Simon, Sally Singer, Shining Sung, and Barbara Waldman.
Orlando Fernandez (Courtesy BFA)
The Museum of Arts and Design explores the intersection of craft, art, and design through exhibitions, programs, and events that highlight contemporary creative practices across disciplines. MAD About Jewelry is the museum’s annual exhibition and sale dedicated to contemporary jewelry, presenting international artists working across a range of materials and techniques.
