Outset-supported contemporary artists Isaac Julien, Nicole Wermers and Catherine Yass have been commissioned to create three new pieces of contemporary jewellery, continuing the tradition of wearable art initiated by Calder. Outset Production Fund Partner Maurice Ostro OBE has donated blue topaz gems to the artists. Each has transformed this new medium in a unique way that exemplifies the artists’ expressive energy. The Ostro Fayre Share Foundation, Outset and Louisa Guinness Gallery were delighted to support artistic creations of jewellery by contemporary artists and enable the realisation of their visions of wearable art.
In presenting their new creations, the artists payed homage to Alexander Calder, a pioneer figure within the heritage of transforming nature’s gifts into new forms of wearable art. A pioneer figure within the heritage of transforming nature’s gifts into artist- made jewellery, Alexander Calder (b.1898) created earrings, bracelets, headdresses, necklaces and brooches that were deeply unconventional in their time, and retain their aesthetic relevance today.
Presented by Louisa Guinness, The Boldness of Calder marked the first exhibition in the UK of Alexander Calder’s jewellery work, with preeminent pieces shown in collaboration with the Calder Foundation.
On the occasion of the celebration at the Natural History Museum Louisa Guinness Gallery collaborated with Bosse & Baum to create a jewellery-specific performance from the artist Janine Harrington. Performers wore key Calder works and costumes designed by Elise Overland.
