Metal Arts Students Recycle Castaway Jewelry into Brilliant, Sustainable New Designs

Academy of Art University School of Fine Art Sculpture students joined forces with art students from across the Bay Area to participate in San Francisco's first-ever Radical Jewelry Makeover. After sifting through a rich supply of donated pieces from more than 100 Bay Area residents, melting down precious metals, and forming creative new designs, the resulting fresh, unique, handmade, and mainly recycled jewelry are ready to be showcased at San Francisco's Velvet da Vinci Gallery.

Approximately 20 Academy of Art University students and alumni created striking wearable metal arts creations for Radical Jewelry Makeover (RJM). Each student was passionate about inventively reconstructing the materials donated. Academy of Art University students created more than 70 pieces for juried selection into the RJM - San Francisco exhibit.

"As an artist in metal arts, I think it is really important to be aware of where your metals are coming from," shares Academy of Art University School of Fine Art Sculpture student Tura Sugden. "Radical Jewelry Makeover is making it possible for more consumer demand in sustainable jewelry source materials."

All pieces will be exhibited and available for sale at Velvet da Vinci Gallery. Sales will benefit Ethical Metalsmiths.

"This event is an exciting and spectacular way to make all artists deeply aware of the vital importance and responsibility of recycling in our profession," says Academy of Art University Director of Graduate Fine Art Sculpture Charlene Modena.

Velvet da Vinci Gallery       
2015 Polk Street
Tuesday - Saturday from 12pm-6pm
Sunday from 12 pm to 4 pm