In a world of over consumption and disposability, we throw away the old or damaged rather than reconsider it for future utility. By transforming unwanted jewelry into new pieces, the work attempts to question ideas of value and materiality.
Some of the designs are inspired by symbols of hierarchy and power, others are created through the process of making and editing.
Curtis H. Arima is an Associate Professor and Co-chair of the Jewelry & Metal Art Program at CCA where he enjoys teaching students different approaches to making art, and helping them find their artistic identities.
Curtis earned a BFA from California College of the Arts and an MFA from Cranbrook Academy of Arts. His work has been exhibited nationally and internationally. He takes a holistic approach to Metalsmithing, and makes work from fine jewelry, holloware, and found object sculpture.
His publications include Metalsmith Magazine, Sculpture Magazine, Lapidary Journal, the Lark 500 Series books, and New Brooches. He has taught workshops in the US, as well as Japan, and China.