Transforming the Prototype
Transforming the Prototype is a collaborative project developed by the Baltimore Jewelry Center, Montgomery College, and Towson University. Participating artists selected a vintage ring design from a curated group chosen for the project and received a wax version of their selection. Artists then transformed the ring through additive or subtractive processes, either while it was still wax or once it was cast in metal. To transform the prototype into a bespoke object or piece of jewelry, artists integrated new wax components, soldered and sawed their cast pieces, added stones, and, in some cases, built larger-scale objects. The resulting work demonstrates the infinite possibilities of the lost wax casting process while making connections between fine jewelry and conceptual jewelry. Participants from the three educational institutions as well as independent artists submitted nearly 50 transformations that will be on view in this exhibition.
Exhibition dates*: May 20 - July 9
an opening reception was held on: Friday, May 20th, 2022 from 5- 8 pm
*a small selection of works traveled to Providence, RI for the
Society of North American Goldsmiths’ Conference from June 1-4, 2022
