Natasha Naquin reveals her masterpiece at the DMA’s jewelry class.

Guest blogger Lydia Regalado writes about people who gather to make things.

As part of Thursday Night Live programming at the Dallas Museum of Art, classes are occasionally held in Center for Creative Connections studios. Last night I attended Remaking Retro: A Flapper’s Jewelry Class, inspired from the exhibition Making it New: The Art and Style of Sara and Gerald Murphy. Taught by local jewelry designer Jelcy Romberg, we learned how to create jewelry using the Egyptian coiling technique. This is moderately difficult to do, however participants of all skill levels were present in the class. We learned how to create bracelets, necklaces and earrings, by holding and wrapping pieces of wire around needle-nose pliers. It was a lot to pack in, but we were so productive, time flew quickly. I loved this experience and think that museums are a natural setting for classes like Jelcy’s. It brings the community together, also providing a great opportunity to view and learn about art first hand. The experience of creating something at a museum brings the process of the artist closer to the viewer and adds a whole new level of art appreciation. It’s wonderful to see the Dallas Museum of Art hosting classes like jewelry making, and I hope we see more of this in future programming. I’m sure Tutankhamen had an Egyptian coiled piece somewhere in his tomb. I’m really excited about what I learned and anxious to use this creative energy that the evening spawned. This weekend I plan to visit my local bead and jewelry supply store to buy materials and tools, and start wrapping!

Next up at the DMA: ReadyMade Workshop

DIY spearheaders and ReadyMade magazine co-founders Grace Hawthorne and Shoshana Berger will be at the Dallas Museum of Art for a workshop and lecture in September. ReadyMade was here in the Fall of 2005, and that workshop is my favorite DMA event to date. Are you excited DIYers? I am!

Details are still being worked out, but here is the proposed schedule.

Thursday, September 18, 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Join the creators of ReadyMade magazine for a special DIY workshop using recyclable materials inspired by the work of Frank Gehry and the Materials and Meaning exhibition on view in the Center for Creative Connections. There is a fee for this workshop and registration is required by September 12. Call 214-922-1826 for more information. This workshop will fill up fast and space is limited.

The following evening Friday, September 19, is Late Night, and the creators of ReadyMade magazine will lecture about DIY materials and culture. This Late Night will celebrate the Center for Creative Connections and its’ innaguaral exhibition Materials and Meanings with artist demonstrations, creativity challenges, and performances.

Be sure to check the DMA’s website as the dates approach for more information.

See you there!