What happens when jewellery meets art

Rachael Taylor hosts an exclusive panel talk on art jewellery at The Arts Club

By Amy Wakeham

Jewellery is humanity’s oldest art form, bringing together both creative expression and craftsmanship. An upcoming talk at The Arts Club, led by Rachael Taylor, will explore what happens when the practices of jewellery and art merge.

‘Bodyline’ earrings by Allen Jones (2017) at the Louisa Guinness Gallery

Speaking on the panel will be Louisa Guinness, founder of her eponymous gallery, the first solely dedicated to artists' jewellery, and a sought-after expert on art jewellery. She works with both leading sculptors and painters to create jewellery, as well as collecting, displaying and dealing works by contemporary jewellery artists.

‘Techno peasant’ medallion necklace by Emily Hunt

Also in conversation will be Emily Hunt, a contemporary artist who creates jewellery as part of her artistic practice that engages with the historical and cultural significance of ornament and grotesque imagery. Emily often works in ceramic, using it to explore how visual languages reflect societal attitudes, transgressive behaviours and esoteric traditions.

‘Diamond Caméléon’ ring by Elie Top

The final panel member is Elie Top, a French jewellery designer who creates sculptural, artistic pieces that cross antagonistic aesthetics and temporalities. He studied at the École de la Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne, apprenticed with Yves Saint Laurent and Loulou de la Falaise, and worked as the artistic director of couture jewellery at Lanvin under Alber Elbaz.

The evening will begin with a discussion on the artists' practices and creation of art jewellery. The speakers will also bring works to be viewed by attendees, with time at the beginning and end of the event to closely view those pieces.

Tuesday 19th May, 18.30-20.00pm

The Arts Club, 40 Dover Street, London W1S 4NP

Members only. Register your interest here

Main image: Jewellery by Elie Top