Desire seeks to investigate the properties within art jewelry that allow a material object to become sought after or longed for. Through the work of Lauren Griffiths, Coutney Kemp, and Jimin Park a new dynamic is formed to explore and challenge this idea. In the work of these artists, coveted objects are no longer limited to precious stones, gems, and metals; but extends to synthetics, color, reclaimed materials, and found objects. These material choices drastically challenge the notion of the precious object while at the same time maintaining a level of longing for within the newly transformed work. This work begins to create a visual lust within the non-precious, which is contradictory to the traditional history of art jewelry. The work of these artists has created a shift within contemporary jewelry, placing value and importance on the beauty inherent in the material, rather than transforming the material into a traditionally desired form.

Works by: Courtney Kemp, Jimin Park, and Lauren Griffiths
Curated by Megan Romero