Ep 2. Jewelry

Craft in America is a documentary TV series that has been showcasing the beauty and evolution of contemporary American craft for over a decade now. The show captures the stories and achievements of various artisans and craftspeople who have sculpted and redefined the American crafts industry over the years. With the release of its eleventh season, the show takes its viewers on yet another fascinating journey into the world of artistic expression.

In the second episode of season eleven titled "Jewelry," the show delves into the world of jewelry design and making. The episode takes an in-depth look at the art form of jewelry making, its traditions, and how it has evolved over time to become a significant aspect of the global fashion industry. From contemporary designs to traditional techniques, "Jewelry" explores the history and impact of jewelry-making and the role of jewelry in society, culture, and art.

The episode takes the viewers across the country and meets artists who create jewelry using various materials such as metal, glass, and paper. It highlights some of the most popular techniques used in jewelry making such as lost-wax casting, metalwork, and filigree. With the help of expert craftspeople, viewers get to witness the entire process of how a piece of jewelry comes to life starting from conception, design, and ending with the final product.

The show features several accomplished jewelry makers and their distinct styles and inspirations. It takes the viewers into the world of Petra Class, a prolific artist, and her team, who specialize in crafting jewelry inspired by nature and the organic world. Her designs are inspired by natural landscapes, plants, animals, and the environment around us. Class uses traditional goldsmithing methods to create jewelry pieces that are unique and one of a kind. The episode showcases some of her pieces, such as delicate leaf designs and intricate feather designs that are truly awe-inspiring.

The show also features jewelry artist Lola Brooks and her jewelry-making style. Brooks uses an ancient technique of granulation, which involves fusing tiny metal balls to create texture and depth. She incorporates this technique into her jewelry, creating pieces that are both modern and classic at the same time. Brooks describes jewelry making as a tool for self-expression, from which she can create pieces that speak to her inner thoughts and emotions.

Viewers also get a glimpse of the work of designer and artist Dona Look who combines sculptural quality and jewelry-making techniques to create unique pieces. Her designs are influenced by the world of dance and movement, resulting in pieces that are fluid and organic in nature. The episode showcases her work, such as brooches that resemble dancing figures.

The episode also includes the work of artists who create jewelry using non-traditional materials such as glass and paper. Glass artist Marlene Rose uses glass to create beautiful beads and pendants inspired by nature. She demonstrates the art of glass bead making, showcasing the intricate process of creating each bead.

Another artist that the show features is Kiff Slemmons, a sculptor, and jeweler that creates her jewelry using paper. Her unique process involves layering, cutting, and piecing together different types of paper to create elegant pieces. The show depicts how she combines paper with metals, creating beautiful and delicate pieces of jewelry that are truly a work of art.

In between showcasing the artists and their work, the episode also explores the historical aspect of jewelry. The show revisits the ancient roots of jewelry making that date back to the Sumerian times and the history of the Egyptian rulers and their use of precious stones and metals in their jewels to show their wealth. The episode also covers the impact of the Industrial Revolution on the art of jewelry making and how the use of machines and mass production changed the industry as we know it today.

As the episode comes to a close, viewers will have had a glimpse into the art form of jewelry making. They will understand the intricate process of jewelry creation, the various techniques used, and the influence of history and tradition on contemporary jewelry. The episode ends with an appreciation of the impact of jewelry on our culture, society, and the world of art.

Craft in America's "Jewelry" episode is enlightening, engaging, and educational. The show captures the essence of the art of jewelry making, showcasing the work of different artists and their unique styles, and techniques. The episode brings to life the creativity and dedication of these artists and their passion for their work. Anyone interested in the art of jewelry making or fashion will undoubtedly find this episode entertaining and informative.