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Photo: Courtesy of DRAFTSpace
The DRAFTSpace Complete Parts exhibit converged reality, art, and photography of jewelry at The Highline Loft on June 11-14, which Downtown got to experience first hand. The exhibit showcased the work of 40 designers, along with photographs of the jewelry in a uniquely styled presentation that enhanced, and even sometimes altered its beauty.
The installation brought together select designers and artists from around the world to unveil their creations to New York’s leading trendsetters. The exhibition sought to encourage discourses on duality, how much truth lies between the original and its simulacrum, while also challenging the viewer’s perceptions of reality versus imagery, and objectification versus adornment. The show also explored stylistic polarities and blending of crafted artisanal contemporary jewelry in new forms and materials on the one hand, and fine couture jewelry with classical precious gemstones on the other.
Photo: Courtesy of DRAFTSpace
We were able to roam around the exhibit and speak to the designers and artisans to learn more about the inspiration behind their respective work. One artist, Fernanda Medina, is the name behind her brand, Syd & Pia, which is based out of Brooklyn. Her work on display offered a simple, yet sophisticated and modern twist on jewelry. Though she primarily works with different metals, Fernanda also showcased the use of other materials, such as bone in one of her pieces, and also in her upcoming collection. It was quite fascinating to learn about where and how the different artists find their inspiration behind their work.
Among the talented designers also included jewelry students from FIT and the Art Start Portrait Project, as part of DRAFTSpace’s dedication to promoting developing artisans. The Art Start Portrait Project is a non-profit program that provides disadvantaged kids with creative programs to supplement artistic and personal development. A portion of sales generated during the event run will be donated to the Art Start program.
The exhibit was truly a magnificent display of the work of artists and designers from all over the world. DRAFTSpace is a platform that allows outstanding artists and emerging designers to be discovered by influential industry connoisseurs and global audience.
-by Jackie Hart