An innovative exhibit at the Missouri State University Robert and Margaret Carolla Arts Exhibition Center is focusing on sustainability in the jewelry industry. The exhibit is part of the Radical Jewelry Makeover project, organized by Ethical Metalsmiths, a community mining initiative aimed at raising awareness about the environmental and social impacts of mining, metalsmithing, and art.
The exhibit features around 140 pieces of jewelry created by 40 art students from MO State and regional artists. These pieces are crafted from donated bits of old jewelry – both precious metals and costume pieces – generously given by community members and local jewelers.
MO State Associate Art Professor Jin A. Seo emphasized the importance of sustainability in the project, stating that it encourages both creativity and environmental responsibility. “It’s about getting to know the problem and educating people,” Seo explained. “We’re not solving it, but we’re raising awareness about it and finding creative ways to address it through art.”
For art student Jules Riddle, participating in the exhibit was an eye-opening opportunity. Reflecting on the waste produced in the jewelry industry, she shared how it was meaningful to transform discarded pieces into something new. “It’s been really amazing to see how these pieces can be repurposed and cherished once again,” Riddle said.
Through this project, students and artists had to combine creativity with problem-solving, making it a unique learning experience that highlights how art can contribute to sustainability and community involvement.
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