VISUAL ARTS + MUSEUMS

Houston Center for Contemporary Craft (HCCC) presents the exhibition TRANSMUTATIONS: Material Reborn.  On view January 16 – March 21, 2010.  Opening Reception Friday, January 15, 5:30 – 8:00 PM.

Curated by celebrated jeweler, Susan Sloan, TRANSMUTATIONS: Material Reborn showcases 28 international jewelry artists who transform materials, such as resin, latex, rubber, vinyl, and thermoplastics, into outrageous jewelry and wearable art. The exhibition includes pieces meant for everyday adornment as well as those that make a larger-than-life statement—some of which are created in combination with more conventional materials, such as gold, silver, pearls, and gemstones.

Stop by the Artist Hall at HCCC to see this stunning array of wearables made from plastic Lego toy parts, precious materials, and found objects! The exhibition includes the work of local artist, Masumi Kataoka, a recipient of the 2009 Individual Artist Grant from the City of Houston through the Houston Arts Alliance. Her work exhibited in "Transmutations" was made with the generous support of this grant.

Pictured:  (top) Rebecca Hannon, Bloom, 2008. Brooch made from plastics, horsehair, and silver. Photo by Rebecca Hannon. (bottom) Emiko Oye, The Duchess, 2008. From My First Royal Jewels. Neckpiece made from repurposed LEGO® and rubber cording. Photo by Emiko Oye.