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12/15/2025

Have You Heard

Today in Art Jewelry

By Art Jewelry Forum

December 2025, Part 2

Art Jewelry Forum is pleased to share the news that members of our community find noteworthy. Is something missing? The success of this compilation of compelling events, news, and items of interest to the jewelry community depends on YOUR participation. If you’re a member of AJF at the Silver level or above, you can add news and ideas to this bi-monthly report by going here. If you aren’t a member, but would like to become one, join AJF here.

EXPLORE JEWELRY IN SCOTLAND THROUGH AJF’S LENS: MAY 27–JUNE 2, 2026
Adventure to Scotland with AJF for an immersive journey into the country’s traditions in history, art, culture, craft, and jewelry. We’ll be based in Edinburgh, with day trips to Dundee and Glasgow. Highlights include: private curator-led tours of the National Museum Scotland to explore the history and context of Scottish jewelry; events with makers; private viewings of grad shows at Edinburgh College of Art, University of Dundee, and Glasgow School of Art; visits to Dundee Open Studios and the V&A Dundee collections, including the unique Catwalk: The Art of the Fashion Show; special panel discussion with Dr. Sandra Wilson and maker/educator Kristin Beeler to learn about the connections between makers’ works and the Scottish landscape; and lots more! Registration opens soon. This trip is open to members at the Silver+ level. Not sure of your membership level? Find your name here. Renew, raise your membership, or join here.

FEEL LIKE SEEING A JEWELRY SHOW?
Find listings from around the world on our dedicated exhibition page.

EVENTS
We have a dedicated page for them. Go here to see the list.

NEWS FROM OUR MEMBERS

THE RESONANCE RESIDENCY FUNDRAISER FOR BROOKLN METAL WORKS
Brooklyn Metal Works is fundraising to launch the Resonance Residency, its first residency for jewelry artists. The Resonance Residency will offer artists at every level of their career an opportunity to develop their work and studio practice while enjoying the unique advantages of being in NYC and its contemporary jewelry scene. As part of its efforts, BKMW is fundraising through bundled selections of specialty publications—a generous donation from the personal library of Helen Drutt English, renowned art historian, educator, and founder of Helen Drutt Gallery. Help BKMW reach its first-tier goal of $20,000 to support an initial cohort of three jewelry artists! Get more info, check out the book bundles, and purchase one here. Make open donations here. This project is fiscally sponsored by Art Jewelry Forum.

MARIANNE ANSELIN: CALME ET AGITÉE, THROUGH DECEMBER 23, 2025
From jewelry that transforms its wearer to contemporary jewelry that asks us to change our perspective, the pieces in this exhibition explore the incessant and permanent movement that transforms. At Galerie MiniMasterpiece, in Paris.

METAMORPHOSIS IN JEWELRY DESIGN FROM PARIS TO THE US PUEBLOS: 1950S–1990S
This exhibition at Mahnaz Collection showcases over 150 jewels created across a vast geography by pioneering and visionary designers, artists, architects, and heritage houses. Discover these often-forgotten jewelers—particularly women makers—during a transformative period in jewelry design. Featuring: Gilbert Albert, Mirko Basaldella, Bulgari, Roberto Burle Marx, Cazzaniga, Cannilla, Chaumet, Codognato, Charles De Temple, Jean Dinh Van, Nanna Ditzel, Giorgio Facchni, Larry Golsh, Andrew Grima, Hemmerle, Illario, Claude Lalanne, Chalres Loloma, Preston Monongye, Elsa Peretti, Sigurd Persson, Wendy Ramshaw, Eveli Sabati, Lisa Sotilis, Ettore Sottsass, Sonwai, Bjorn Weckstrom, Tapio Wirkkala, Vivianna Torun. Through December 23, 2025, by appointment only. Email studio@mahnazcollection.com. More.

CHECK OUT THE CATALOG FOR TREASURE HUNT, AT MOBILIA GALLERY
This exhibition is inspired by the discovery of King Tut’s Tomb and the unearthing of one of the world’s most iconic treasures and magnificent objects. View the catalog here.

EARRINGS GALORE, ON VIEW AT HEIDI LOWE GALLERY
This annual juried exhibition exemplifies a rich and diverse array of earrings made by emerging and established studio jewelers. Each artist’s unique approach to the earring format is represented in a cohesive grouping of earrings. The exhibition is intended to create more access for the public to see art jewelry, cultivate connections with the community, and provide an opportunity for visitors to add new pieces to their jewelry collections. Alicia Jane Boswell, Ana Citlalli Anaya Vite, Ana Pina, Andrea Corson, Andy Lowrie, Anna Sikorska, Anna Bánkuti, Baleigh Acebo, Beverly Kingwood, Brooke Marks-swanson, Candice Benton, Carin Jones, Carina Shoshtary, Claire Webb, Eden Lennox, Elisabeth Drude, Elle Irwin, Emily Webster, Emma Gregory, Emma Rose, Emy Gargiulo, Erica Bello, Gaby Alvarado, Gabriela Sierra, Genevieve Williamson, Hannah Tomoko Joris, Heather Guidero, Heather Mackenzie, Helen Dorion, Jess Tolbert, Jiayi Lao, Jung Ki Min, Kamile Staneliene, Laritza Garcia, Laura Lau Klein, Marissa Saneholtz, Meghan Korol, Mia Hebib, Nadya Lunkina, Niamh Wright, Nicole Schusteri, Olga Chernyshova, Olga Van Doorn, Orsolya Karman, Roberta Modulo, Rose Williams, Sarah Chapman, Sarah Holden, Sophia Sophia, Stephanie Schaub, Suna Bonometti, Tara Locklear, Uli Rapp, Wren Schulz, Xinchen Li, Xinyi Chen, Ye-jee Lee, Yuri Tozuka, Zach Mellman-carsey, Ziqi Yuan. More.

TWISTED COAGULATION: DANNI SCHWAAG, AT GALERIE DOOR
“In my current work,” states Schwaag, “I refer to the material galalith, a casein material from the 1930s, and its properties, as well as to my state of being, the recurring questioning of (artistic) creation, enduring a crisis of meaning, accepting, questioning, being stuck, wriggling out, and the new paths that can open up.” Through January 17, 2026. Info.

WHITE AND RED DOTS, AT PLATINA THROUGH DECEMBER 30, 2025
The gallery presents jewelry in white and red. The exhibition includes the brooch Snow White, by Felieke van der Leest; ruffs and necklaces by Caroline Broadhead crafted from white glass beads; porcelain pieces by Manon van Kouswijk; rings like red and white dots by Marta Boan; braided white silver by Ameli Dévé and Catarina Hällzon; red silk jewelry by Mari Ishikawa; earrings and brooches by Hanna Liljenberg; red aluminum works by Sanna Wallgren; silver white rings by Åsa Portnoff Sundström; and additional pieces in the same palette. Info.

BIJOUX!: JANUARY 13–17, 2026
The Boca Raton Museum’s annual contemporary jewelry exhibition and sale. In 2026 it takes place at a different venue than in years past: The Studio at Mizner Park. Info. AJF Board member Davira Taragin is involved with this project.

POINTS OF LIGHT
The show includes handcrafted jewelry, painting, sculpture, photography, prints and collages, and decorative objects by John Iversen, Ted Muehling, Patricia Maurides, Vija Celmins, Alice Hope, Michelle Stuart, and John Torreano. At the Drawing Room, East Hampton, NY, through January 18, 2026. More.

PHILIP SAJET ESTIMATES HE MAKES 5€ PER HOUR
Watch an interview with Sajet, who speaks tongue slightly in cheek to promote the Cash exhibition, which was shown at Borax, and AJF member gallery. He is among the 15 artists who participated in the show. In French, here. Borax was also interviewed for Vertigo by Florence Grivel. Listen to the podcast, in French, here.

MUSEUM OF ARTS AND DESIGN ACQUIRES AARON DECKER’S DEVIL BOMB
Made specially for the exhibition OUT of the Jewelry Box, the piece is a parure that includes earrings (sneakers), a bracelet (tail), and a ring/pendant (small devil figure inside the larger figure). Regarding this acquisition, Decker wishes to thank Stefan Friedemann and Laura Lapachin, directors of Ornamentum Gallery, for their constant support of his work; MAD curator Barbara Paris Gifford; and the Patrons of MAD Jewelry Circle, who voted to have this piece collected into MAD’s permanent collection in November 2025.

OPEN CALL: LEGNICA JEWELLERY FESTIVAL SILVER
The Gallery of Art in Legnica (Poland) invites artists, goldsmiths, designers, and professional and amateur jewelry makers from all over the world to participate in its 34th international jewelry competition. Artists have full freedom of technique and material. The only requirement is a clear reference to the competition theme: Every Body. Using silver is not required. The grand opening of the Legnica Jewellery Festival SILVER and the announcement of the winners will take place May 8–9, 2026. Jurors: Paul Derrez, Sławomir Fijałkowski, Sergiusz Kuchczyński, Andreia Gabriela Popescu, Helena Renner. Deadline: January 8, 2026. More.

RACINE ART MUSEUM’S “DESIGNED BY ME” RAISES $2,800
Earlier this year, RAM hosted a contest that allowed young creatives to design fantastical jewelry creations. Three were transformed into pieces of wearable art, displayed at RAM, then auctioned off, with all proceeds going to local charities chosen by the kids: Wisconsin Humane Society, Kindred Kitties, and Rescue Outreach. More. RAM curator Lena Vigna is a member of AJF.

CRAFTED IN ISTANBUL: THE ULTIMATE JEWELRY EXPERIENCE—OCTOBER 14–19, 2026
This extraordinary journey is designed for discerning travelers, jewelry aficionados, collectors and designers, delivering an immersive exploration of Istanbul’s storied artistry. Walk in the footsteps of Byzantine goldsmiths and Ottoman jewelers, as well as today’s contemporary design visionaries. Info. AJF member Warren Feld shared this news.

OPPORTUNITIES FROM @SNAGMETALSMITH!
SNAG is now accepting submissions for several 2026 programs, including SNAG @ Tucson open calls (deadline: January 30, 2026) and Awards & Scholarships (deadline: January 20, 2026). Learn more and apply via SNAG’s website.

JEWELRY OF THE AFROFUTURE, AT MAD, RECEIVES MAJOR COVERAGE
The exhibition featuring Douriean Fletcher’s work has been covered by Forbes, Vogue, and AMNY. “To walk through this exhibition is to encounter a lexicon of liberation—a reminder that craftsmanship is a form of prophecy,” states reporter Avalan Ashley Bellos.

NEWS FROM ALL AROUND

SAM THO DUONG, CURATOR OF SCHMUCK 2026, HAS MADE HIS SELECTIONS
From more than 1,000 submissions—a record number—he could select only 6 or 7 percent! In an interview, he provides insights into his impressions, decisions, and criteria. Read it in English or listen in German here. The internationally renowned exhibition will be presented March 4–8, 2026, as part of Handwerk & Design, at Munich’s Internationale Handwerksmesse.

WATARU YAMAZAKI: GARDEN OF SHADOWS, AT GALLERY DEUX POISSONS
Yamazaki’s highly original jewelry incorporates traditional Japanese metalworking techniques. In this solo exhibition, the artist explores new techniques and compositions using light and shadow as a guiding principle. The show features a series of works that capture the expressions of natural light and shadow observed in everyday life, rendered through the texture and form of metal. In Tokyo, through December 25, 2025. More.

WEARHOUSE CHRISTMAS EVENT #2
Attendees will unwrap secret presents from renowned jewelry makers, whose names will be revealed soon. In this amusing blind-sale concept, you guess what’s inside based on the packaging and a short description, and choose the piece that feels just right for you—or for someone close to your heart. December 19–20, 2025. Info.

CURRENT OBSESSION HAS OPENED A STORE
It is now not only giving makers a platform, but also representing them. Info.

ONLINE TALK—BEAUTY AND INTRICACY: JEWELLERY OF THE EARLY ISLAMIC WORLD
Join jewelry historian Jack Odgen and Goldmsiths’ Centre to explore the beauty and craftsmanship of early Islamic jewelry. What role did geometry and abstraction play in early Islamic jewelry? How were goldsmithing techniques perfected during this period and how did these technological advancements impact the scale and intricacy of the work? From Spain to Central Asia, the medieval Islamic world produced some of the most intricate gold jewelry in history. Discover how design traditions from the Islamic world are still used across jewelry making practices today. January 14, 2026, 6 p.m. UK. Register here.

BEIJING INTERNATIONAL ART JEWELRY EXHIBITION: THROUGH MAY 30, 2026
Organized by the Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology, this touring exhibition takes place every two years and showcases international contemporary jewelry art. It features artists from diverse backgrounds and nationalities, focuses on artistic expression and cultural exchange, and includes related happenings in places such as Puyuan. The theme for 2025–2026: “Harmony and Coexistence.” In Beijing, China. Info.

VIDEO—UNBOXING VICTORIAN MOURNING
The V&A presents a glimpse into the fascinating and eerie world of Victorian mourning traditions. The curators reveal intricate jewelry made from human hair, a Victorian mourning outfit, and haunting postmortem photographs once used to memorialize the dead. Watch the video here.

PUYUAN INTERNATIONAL CONTEMPORARY JEWELLERY ART AND DESIGN BIENNALE, THROUGH FEBRUARY 22, 2026
This inaugural Puyuan International Contemporary Jewellery Art and Design Biennale (abbreviated as A.B.C.D Biennale) features independent thematic pavilions representing eight countries: the UK, Netherlands, Germany, Italy, China, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand. Renowned jewelry practitioners from around the world curate these exhibitions. Through thematic showcases, forums, and three major program segments, the biennial aims to present creativity and breakthroughs in contemporary jewelry. At the International Contemporary Jewellery Center, Puyuan, China. Info.

OPPORTUNITIES

OPEN CALL: 2026 FRIEDRICH BECKER PRIZE
Awarded for outstanding, independent design of the highest quality every three years by the Society for Goldsmithing since 1999, the award honors the next generation of outstanding designers of jewelry, utensils, and objects. €10,000, exhibition, catalog. Jurors: Paul Derrez, Melanie Isverding, Dr. Christianne Weber-Stöber. Deadline: December 31, 2025. More.

SPECTOR CRAFT PRIZE FOR EMERGING ARTISTS
Five early-career artists will win $10,000, mentorship opportunities, and professional network development. Disciplines include metalwork, ceramics, textiles, woodworking, glass, basketry, and paper arts. Deadline: March 1, 2026. Info.

HOUSTON CENTER FOR CONTEMPORARY CRAFT: 2026–2027 ARTIST RESIDENCY
Artists selected for three- to 12-month residencies receive 24/7 access to studio space, cultural and professional development opportunities, a $1,000 monthly stipend, and the opportunity to give an artist talk. Deadline: February 1, 2026. Info.

2026 GROOT GRANT APPLICATION FOR SCULPTORS
For 30+ years, the Virginia A. Groot Foundation has supported sculptors across all forms and materials, helping them dedicate time and resources to their creative practices. The foundation awards unrestricted grants in three tiers: $60,000, $30,000, and $20,000. The application fee is $7. Deadline: January 10, 2026. Info.

PAGES SPOTLIGHTING JEWELRY

FROM LOUISE BOURGEOIS TO YOKO ONO
Presents some 85 jewelry works by 45 internationally renowned female artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. The publication focuses on female stances while breaking with the male-dominated perception of avant-garde artist jewelry. Each of the featured works condenses an artistic vision into a wearable statement; some captivate with form through a reduced aesthetic, others through an expressive, sculptural presence or playful humor. The book accompanies the exhibition of the same name at the Museum of Applied Arts Cologne (MAKK). From Arnoldsche. More.

The opinions stated here do not necessarily express those of AJF.

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