The Road to Milano Jewelry Week
This week I am heading to Milano Jewelry Week! I will be showing two pieces in the Contemporary Jewelry exhibition entitled Artistar Jewels at the Palazzo Bovara from October 18-20, 2025.
I’m not entirely sure what to expect from this event! To my understanding, it will be similar to a convention or symposium. There are exhibitions, talks, awards, networking events, etc. Buyers and Press tour the exhibitions— it will be an opportunity to connect with magazines, publications, galleries, retail buyers, etc. to promote my work.
Before I dive into the pieces I made for the event (blogpost forthcoming), I thought I’d share how the opportunity to show in the fashion capital of the world came about.
How did I hear about it?
In April, an organizer of the event contacted me on Instagram. At first, I was sure this was a scam. But I did my research and they set up an informational interview via videochat to tell me about the event and answer my questions. I was intimidated, but the woman I spoke to, Adriana, was very kind and assured me that if they’d contacted me first, I was basically a shoe-in— they wouldn’t contact me unless they already found my work interesting and worthy of inclusion. I applied and was accepted!
Piece Selection
My portfolio was evaluated by a group of curators. I was selected to show based on the overall style and quality of my work. The specific pieces were to be selected at a later date. This meant I had time to make something special just for the event.
In July, I submit photographs of seven different pieces. The curators then selected two for the exhibition. I had to photograph these pieces for the exhibition catalog and later ship them to Italy in advance of my arrival in Milan for the event.
I’ll be sharing more on the process of creating new pieces specifically for the exhibition and ensuing chaos (why does it follow me so?).
Manifest Milano
When I rebranded last year, one of my goals was to free up time and energy to work on a new brand or branch of my work that focused on more contemporary and avant-garde jewelry. I was especially interested in establishing a global/European market and audience. I’ve always dreamed of living in Europe, but I wanted to maintain my Minnesota roots. My dream was to be able to travel to Europe once or twice per year for collaborations, markets, exhibitions, and residencies. I just couldn’t quite figure out how to make this happen.
But here I am, on my way to Milan! When this opportunity fell into my lap, I felt like I had manifested it. I’m not sure what will come of it, but if nothing else, it will be an inspiring experience. I’m sure to meet new people gather inspiration, and learn about the industry.
Wish me luck!
Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes of the event and making the jewels on display.
If you have friends or family in Milan, please send them my way! The event is free to attend.