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    • Feb 7
    • 2 min read

The Nature of Imperfection: Call for Art

The Nature of Imperfection: Jewelry and Adornment


The Nature of Imperfection: Jewelry and Adornment is a juried call for entries that embraces the concept of imperfections and inconsistencies in works of art.


Makers are encouraged to submit examples offering a range of perspectives on this topic. Works that investigate aspects of the human condition, natural phenomena, and pattern disruptions, for example, merely are suggestions for a subject that has many points of entry. The subject of imperfection is a core tenet of the Society of Arts and Crafts, Boston, which was founded in 1897 to support hand craftsmanship in a rapidly industrializing world.


Applicants may be inspired by the art theorist John Ruskin, who first articulated concepts of the arts and crafts movement, writing “No human face is exactly the same in its lines on each side, no leaf perfect in its lobes, no branch in its symmetry. All admit irregularity as they imply change; and to banish imperfection is to destroy expression, to check exertion, to paralyze vitality (source).”


Note to artists/makers: Please do not be discouraged if your ideal materials/methods/mediums are not listed here. Our interpretation of jewelry is wide-ranging, and adornment can be almost anything that rests or is placed on the body. How you interpret that is up to you. Show us something interesting. We hope you will surprise us.


Entrants will select up to two (2) categories for consideration:

  1. Metalwork: Includes jewelry made primarily from metals such as gold, silver, copper, brass, and others. Entries may range from traditional metalworking techniques to contemporary approaches.

  2. Mixed Media: Combines different materials in their jewelry creations. This category might include pieces that incorporate metals, polymer clay,  gemstones, beads, fibers, wood, or other nature-based or unconventional materials.

  3. Enamelwork: Specifically for jewelry that features the art of enameling.

  4. Upcycled or Recycled Materials: The focus is on sustainable jewelry made from recycled or upcycled materials. This category promotes eco-friendly practices and creativity in repurposing materials.

  5. Cultural/Traditional: Celebrate jewelry that draws inspiration from specific cultures or traditions. This category may include pieces that reflect the artist’s heritage or explore cultural themes.

*Selected pieces will be shown in the SA+C online gallery. All selected artists will be featured on SA+C social media, on the website and in our eNewsletter (sent to 10,000+ recipients). One artist will be awarded a $1,000 grant to inspire their continued work. Plans for an in-person exhibition will be announced at a later date. Work should have been made within the last five (5) years.


Dates

  • January 15, 2023 – March 15, 2024

  • Jurying March 16-25, 2024

  • Announcements: Friday, March 29, 2024

Jurors

Entry Fee $30.00


Image RequirementsSubmit up to three (3) pieces, with a full and detail image of each piece. Photographs should be JPEG or TIFF files sized at a minimum of 4 x 6 inches and (at least) 300 dpi and will be uploaded online.


Eligibility

This international call is open to both emerging and established makers.


Jury Process

Jurors will evaluate the submissions based on creative approaches to the theme, craftsmanship, technical proficiency, aesthetics, and other considerations as determined by the jury.



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