BNG To Feature Jewellery By Melanie Eddy
The Bermuda National Gallery [BNG] announced the opening of Meditations on Form: Jewellery by Melanie Eddy, the “Gallery’s first-ever jewellery exhibition, generously sponsored by Butterfield with support from the Bermuda Foundation.”
A spokesperson said, “The exhibition, which opens to the public on October 4, 2024, showcases the sculptural work of Bermuda-born, London-based designer Melanie Eddy, whose bold geometric designs are celebrated internationally. For Melanie Eddy, this exhibition marks a significant milestone in her career.”
“It’s a full circle moment to be having my first solo exhibition back here in Bermuda with the Bermuda National Gallery, 20 years since I left the island to further my ambitions for my jewellery practice,” says Ms Eddy.
Her work, which is characterized by distinctive geometric faceted forms, has been featured in two groundbreaking exhibitions at Sotheby’s, Brilliant & Black: A Jewellery Renaissance held at Sotheby’s New York in 2021 and Brilliant and Black: The Age of Enlightenment held at Sotheby’s London the following year.
In 2021, she was commissioned by the Victoria and Albert Museum [V&A] in London to design a ring set for their permanent collection. The rings went on permanent display in the William and Judith Bollinger gallery in 2023 and the accompanying design drawings were also accessioned into the V&A’s collection.
Model wearing Melanie Eddy’s Trinity Bangles, 2021; Faceted Bangles, 2007 and Faceted XL Hoops, 2024. All in sterling silver. [Photograph by Meredith Andrews]
Despite her global success, Ms Eddy’s connection to Bermuda remains a profound influence on her work. “Having the opportunity to showcase this work here in Bermuda is incredibly meaningful for me. So much of how I am in the world, how I show up and what I put into the contemporary jewellery space was forged here on this island, amongst its people.”
“The simplicity of Bermuda’s vernacular architecture, the angular shadows cast by the island’s stark sunlight and the triangular sails of the Bermuda rig all serve as key inspirations for her designs,” a spokesperson said. “The Bermuda National Gallery is excited to transform its space for this landmark exhibition, which will explore the intersection of architecture and jewellery design.”
“Much like architecture, most of its meaning is in the interaction,” says Ms Eddy, who describes jewellery as “intimate architecture – the design of structures for the body.”
“The exhibition, curated by Eve Godet Thomas, will provide a unique opportunity to experience the artistry and craftsmanship of one of Bermuda’s most celebrated designers,” a spokesperson added.
Butterfield expressed their enthusiasm for supporting this exhibition, stating, “We are absolutely delighted to be sponsoring Melanie’s first solo exhibition in Bermuda. It is particularly meaningful as Melanie was a recipient of a Butterfield scholarship back in 2006, which supported Bermudians with a passion for art to pursue their dreams. We are thrilled she is here on island to share her talent and her creative works with the community. We encourage everyone to visit the exhibition and to be inspired by Melanie’s passion and artistic achievements.”
Melanie Eddy’s Faceted Ring, 2009; Oblong Faceted Ring, 2009; Faceted Bangles, 2007 and Trinity Bangles, 2021. All in sterling silver. [Photograph by Meredith Andrews]
“In addition to the exhibition, BNG is offering a series of educational opportunities for those interested in exploring the world of jewellery design. A workshop led by Melanie Eddy will take place on October 5, offering participants the chance to learn directly from the artist. A talk is also scheduled for October 10, where Eddy will discuss her work, inspirations and the creative process. Tickets can be purchased at www.bng.bm,” a spokesperson said.
“The Bermuda National Gallery invites everyone to join in this celebration of art and design, and to experience the transformative power of jewellery through the lens of Melanie Eddy’s work.
“Meditations on Form: Jewellery by Melanie Eddy will be on display from October 4, 2024 through May 2025 at the Bermuda National Gallery, in Hamilton. Sponsored by Butterfield with support from the Bermuda Foundation. Exhibition curated by Eve Godet Thomas. Admission is free, sponsored by The Christian Humann Foundation. The Gallery is open Tuesdays to Fridays from 10am to 4pm, and Saturdays from 10am to 2pm. For more information, visit www.bng.bm.”
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