Introduction by 27fishes

In 2000 we organized the first ‘WEARING GLASS - contemporary jewellery and body adornment’ at the Glass Art Gallery, London. The exhibition grew out of a mutual passion for glass and resulted in the discovery of the artistic scope of this medium when used in jewellery.

An Arts Council England Research and Development Grant, in 2004, allowed us to develop our understanding of current cultural trends in glass jewellery and expand our database of relevant artists and key contacts, resulting in our latest exhibition ‘WEARING GLASS 2005.’

This selling exhibition was conceived in order to present a current, international overview of jewellery and body adornment in which glass is the essential element. The show illustrated the amazing diversity of glass as a medium for stunning contemporary jewellery and its fascination for designers from different creative backgrounds, including sculptors, gold and silversmiths, product designers and jewellers as well as glass artists.

The selected work displayed the highest levels of creativity and technical achievement in contemporary jewellery practices, combining an excellent standard in design and finish together with humour, sensuality and tactility.

The scope and style of the work on show ensured it was a hit with anyone interested in glass as a creative medium, as well as for those interested in the latest trends in bespoke jewellery.

Wearing Glass 2005, opened at the.gallery@oxo, Oxo Tower Wharf, Bargehouse Street, South Bank, London, UK, SE1 9PH and ran from 28 October – 13 November 2005.

It toured to the National Glass Centre, Liberty Way, Sunderland, UK 12 May -1 July 2006.

27fishes are a group of independent artists and curators including: Candice-Elena Evans, Claire Gutteridge, Anna Hazelden and Marie Worre Hastrup Holm.