New Mexico State University (NMSU) is set to host its 41st Annual Jewelry Sale, featuring unique, handmade jewelry crafted by art students. The event aims to not only provide students with an opportunity to showcase their skills but also to raise funds for the metalsmithing program and acquire new equipment for the metalsmithing studio, according to a press release by NMSU.
The sale offers over 700 unique handcrafted pieces and will be held from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 30. This jewelry sale event will take place at the NMSU Bookstore's coffee shop, located at 1400 E. University Ave, and attendees will receive two hours of free parking. Furthermore, there will be more jewelry options available during the NMSU Department of Art's upcoming "Open Studio" day on Saturday, Nov. 4 according to a press release by NMSU.
According to NMSU, the artists participating in this year's jewelry sale drew inspiration from various sources, including Catholicism, the medieval period, and the stars in the sky. Storm Anderson, one of the art students, crafted earrings and bracelets influenced by medieval illustrations using scrap metal and wood. Isabel Solorza, another student in NMSU's jewelry and metalsmithing program, incorporated religious imagery in her jewelry, reminiscent of gothic cathedrals, using laser cutting and heat to carefully produce acrylic rings, earrings, and bracelets. Rae Legere, who runs her own jewelry business, designed star-shaped brass and copper earrings with sterling posts. (Source)
“As an instructor, I am very proud of our talented students and am excited to share their products with the public,” said Motoko Furuhashi, NMSU associate professor in jewelry and metalsmithing, according to a press release by NMSU.
“The jewelry sale gives the students experience as professionals in the jewelry industry,” said Motoko Furuhashi according to a press release by NMSU. "The students learn jewelry advertising, marketing, accounting, customer care and jewelry production.”
The Annual Jewelry Sale not only provides a platform for NMSU art students to showcase their talent but also offers the public a chance to own unique, handcrafted jewelry while supporting the growth and development of the metalsmithing program at NMSU.