Opening reception: Friday, March 20, 7 - 9 pm
This spring, residents of the Delaware Valley will have the rare opportunity to see exquisitely hand-crafted jewelry and sculptures from some the world’s leading contemporary metalsmiths. In “Reflections in Metal” the works of nearly thirty members of the prestigious Pennsylvania Society of Goldsmiths (PSG) will be on display.
“We are fortunate and privileged,” says Kirk Kozero, PSG’s Director of Development, “to be able to showcase the works of so many of our members during a single event.” PSG members are widely recognized for their one-of-a-kind or limited edition pieces, created with gold, platinum, silver, copper, steel, and bronze. Many of the pieces are accented with precious and semi-precious stones or embellished with enamels, fused gold designs, or everyday objects such as river stones, nuts and bolts, and even bottle caps.
“Increasingly,” explains Kozero, “people who want to express their individuality are buying handcrafted jewelry…and they are turning to craft galleries for their purchases. You are not going to find unique pieces like these in chain jewelry stores or department stores. What’s more, buyers are now realizing how important it is today to support local artists.”
According to Karen Louise Fay, Wayne’s Director of Special Projects, not only will gallery visitors see stunning original pieces created by highly talented local craftsmen, but they will also see stunning and highly innovative works by ten internationally-renowned master metalsmiths who have works in private collections and in some of the most prestigious galleries and museums in the world.
Among the masters participating in the event are Charles Lewton-Brain, Chris Darway (PSG’s President), Lexi Ericson, Ann Lalik, Betty Helen Longhi, Thomas Mann, Julie Jerman-Melka, Harold O’Connor, Todd Reed, Marne Ryan, and Mary Ann Scherr. Many of these artists are PSG members or are affiliated with PSG.
“No matter what your taste,” says Fay, “there is something in the show for everyone…from jewelry that you’ll want to wear every day…to sophisticated pieces that are the perfect complement to more formal attire…we’ll even have beautifully crafted sculptural pieces for your home or office.” Although all work in the gallery is for sale, this exhibit was also designed to educate the public, students, and collectors about the fine art of handcrafted jewelry. “As part of our educational outreach,” continues Fay, “we have asked PSG to provide a number of private tours for area high schools.”
“We are truly excited about partnering with PSG,” says Nancy Campbell, the Center’s Executive Director, “to host this exciting show.” “For years,” Campbell shares, “we have wanted to offer jewelry classes and through our partnership with PSG, we are designing and equipping a studio and hope to offer a wide range of classes for students of every level by this fall.” Partial proceeds from the sale of all jewelry at the show will be dedicated to outfitting a state of the art studio at the Center.
Thomas Mann, one of the most intriguing metalsmiths and visual artists of our time, will be signing copies of his many books during the reception. Mann will also be presenting a 2-day workshop, Design for Survival, at the Center on March 21and 22. In this highly motivational and intense workshop, Mann will share his years of experience in the crafts and arts fields and will provide priceless, personalized training in the “art” of managing a successful business. The workshop is geared toward artists working in all media and at all levels of experience…from students and hobbyists to established artists.
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