BLACK ON BLACK at the Manchester Art Gallery is an investigation into the allure of the color black as a material and conceptual element of jewelry throughout time. The exhibition includes work from 17 contemporary artists in 10 different countries including: Julia Maria Künnap, Sondra Sherman and Bettina Speckner.
Curator Jo Bloxham writes, “…black jewelry gives off a powerful message. At times it has been a dark and sombre communication, expressed by the 19th century jet mourning jewelry and Berlin Ironwork on display from Manchester Art Gallery’s costume collection.These poignant black treasures were popular fashion statements up until the end of the 1800s. Today, jewelry artists continue to be inspired by the color black.” The artists included “have each worked with the color black, using unconventional materials and a variety of different techniques, to express present day concerns and emotions.”
Manchester Art Gallery in Manchester, England is one of the country’s finest art museums. The museum incorporates a a blend of historic and contemporary architecture that echoes their innovative artistic program. Mixing works from the wonderful historic collections with the best international contemporary art the museum bring fresh perspectives to familiar images, create visual dialogues and encourage conversation and debate.
Black on Black
June 20 – October 9, 2015
Manchester Art Gallery
images in order: Julia Maria Kunnapp, Bettina Speckner and Sondra Sherman
