Navajo/Hopi jewelry artist Jesse Monongya torches silver at his jeweler's bench

JEWELRY: PURPOSE, PRESENCE, AND MEANING

In this lesson students will view the work of contemporary jewelry artists Harriete Estel Berman, Gabrielle Gould, and Jesse Monongya. Through investigating these artists’ approaches to jewelry making and the processes and techniques they employ, students will understand and discuss how these artists select materials based on personal choices, life experiences, and things they care about in the natural environment. Students will learn about their use of found objects and recycled materials, consider how jewelry is made, collaborate and brainstorm ways to design and create their own jewelry, and explore jewelry as art and as personal adornment. Students will create their own jewelry that has personal meaning and communicates a message that may go beyond the confines of traditional jewelry.

Grade Level: 7–12

Craft In America Theme/Episode: JEWELRY