This August, Patina presents two exciting exhibits of contemporary designer jewelry. Form 2 Function, opening August 3, brings together works from two European artists whose highly acclaimed contemporary works epitomize refined simplicity. Pattern + Flow, opening August 10, presents crochet bead and faceted gem necklaces and bracelets from American designer, Claire Kahn. The artists will travel to Santa Fe for their exhibits' openings.

French artist Claude Chavent creates trompe l'oeil masterworks in silver, gold, platinum and iron. A master illusionist, he imbues his jewelry with an appearance of dimension by juxtaposing the natural tones of combined metals and their textured surfaces, creating an Escher-like effect. A flat square appears to be a cube and a circle seems voluminous as a sphere. Chavent's works reside in the collection of New York's Museum of Art and Design.  

Claude Chavent, Pin

The trompe l'oeil dimensionality of Chavent's works counterpoint the voluminous "cocoons" of Erich Zimmermann. Where Chavent creates the illusion of volume, German artist Erich Zimmermann celebrates it. Each voluptupuous "cocoon" is a hand-forged sculpture, textured to enhance this quality. Though each is a masterpiece of precision, there is a soft organic character to the works, too. In part, it is this juxtaposition that makes his work so appealing. Zimmermann has exhibited extensively throughout Europe and the US.    

Erich Zimmermann, Pin

Pattern + Flow is an exhibit of works from artist Claire Kahn, whose intricately patterned and subtley colored crochet beaded necklaces drape sensuously and conform to the body. Collectors love the fluid quality of these works, their ease of wear and versatility. By knotting and wrapping, the same necklace permits infinite variation. Kahn is represented exclusively by Patina Gallery and this will be her second Patina exhibit. 

Kahn's background in design is evident in her jewelry. Currently the executive designer for WET, the firm renowned for creating water features at sites around the world. During the course of her career, Kahn has designed everything from graphics and textiles to vast public space interiors, including Davies Symphony Hall in San Francisco.

Claire Kahn, Necklace

This summer, Patina introduces an exciting new offering called, "Observations," a series of conversations and demonstrations of jewelry making. During scheduled sessions, each of the artists will spend time with clients, sharing their techniques at a jeweler's bench in Patina's back room. 

Moderated by esteemed teacher and designer, Linda Threadgill, Patina hopes this project will illuminate the creative processes of master jewelers. It is a rare opportunity to observe the actual fabrication of a precious masterwork.