Jewelry as Fashion 2009 has come and gone, and with it a refreshing reminder of what it is we are all here to do: to create community via arts education.
60 special guests and many more volunteers, staff, and artists gathered at Hui No`eau to celebrate the only nonprofit, community-based jewelry education program. The intimate event featured the stunning choreography of André Morisette, whose models became living sculptures depicting the styles and poses of Russian-born French artist and designer Erté, best remembered for the gloriously elaborate costumes and stage sets that he designed during the roaring twenties. Guests had the opportunity to meet Hui jewelry artists, talk to them about their work and inspiration, bid on a chance to design their very own piece of fine jewelry with an esteemed designer or to win an 80-inch fresh water pearl necklace from sponsor Tiffany & Co, and bask in the divine design created with the help of countless community supporters. Gage Schubert and Gloria Kraftsow were awarded the 2009 "Hui Angel" awards for making significant contributions to the Hui jewelry program, ranging from volunteerism and continuous class enrollment to planning and fundraising.
"The event epitomized elegance and style from top to bottom with a strong artistic flare," says guest Sandra Florence, "To see those models strike Erté poses with gorgeous jewelry crafted at the Hui was just beyond belief. The chance to purchase truffles in exchange for sponsoring open studio hours for students was a great opportunity to give; I was delighted to be able to participate."
The models grand exit to the dramatic scene set by Ravel's Bolero.
We hope to see you next year!
