The Dallas Museum of Art has opened "Constellations: Contemporary Jewelry at the Dallas Museum of Art," its largest-ever exhibition of contemporary jewelry, featuring over 350 pieces by 233 artists spanning eight decades. Curated by Sarah Schleuning, the show emphasizes conceptual ideas over material value, with works made from unconventional materials like found objects, zinc, steel, and fair-trade gold. Highlights include pieces by Iris van Herpen, Andrea Branzi, Harry Bertoia, Ute Decker, Art Smith, and merry renk, displayed in a design by artist and architect Jarrod Beck. A 456-page catalog accompanies the exhibition, which runs through May 3, 2026.
The exhibition matters because it challenges traditional, gem-centric notions of jewelry, positioning wearable art as a serious medium for artistic expression. By showcasing works that prioritize concept over precious materials, the DMA expands the definition of jewelry and elevates contemporary studio jewelry within the museum context. The show also underscores the museum's commitment to its significant contemporary jewelry collection, offering a scholarly catalog that documents these holdings for the first time, potentially influencing how such works are collected and studied in the future.