Monday, July 20, 2009

Joan Z Horn Jewelry Exhibition at Smith Galleries

Smith Galleries announces a special exhibit on of jewelry by Joan Z Horn. Smith Galleries is recognized as the area's leading source for fine handcrafted jewelry by American studio artists.

Following are a few words written by Joan about her life and work."In my studio I fabricate each piece of jewelry. I create individual elements from Sterling Silver and 14Kt. Gold, using traditional and innovative hand tools. My bench contains tubing jigs that are like old friends. My metal starts out as flat sheet, round, square and flat wire, and tubing. I solder individual elements together using an acetylene/oxygen torch. I enhance pieces with freshwater pearls and semi-precious stones, making color combinations with Garnet, Blue Topaz, Citrine, Peridot, Iolite and Amethyst. My jewelry pieces are studies in line, color and movement.I love working in my studio, and my hands feel most at home when they have a pair of pliers in them. Tools that were never intended for jewelry lead me into whole new directions. I question my auto mechanic about devices he uses. When the plumber comes for household repairs I inspect his tubing cutters and torch tip. A tube wringer from a dental supply catalog inspires new lines of jewelry. I visualize everything in the world as if it were a piece of jewelry. Musical notes from the sheet music in choir become a brooch pattern. Gates in Barcelona become a pendant. Other loves include riding my bike, baking bread, choir and traveling.I was born and raised in New York. I graduated with a BFA in Metalsmithing from Tyler School of Art, Temple University.

See still pictures of the entire show or a slide show.The show runs through August. Smith Galleries is open from 10-6 Monday through Saturday.Join Smith Galleries E-Club, you'll be glad you did! And be sure to ask about the gallery's new Rewards Program the next time you are in the gallery. 800.272.3870