3rd exhibition in the 16th Nidbach series: Material Landscape

The works of the jeweler Riep Chopin create a sensitive and beautiful ideologically and historically charged world. The jewelry displayed relates to the historical and cultural continuum of jewelry making but simultaneously raises broad questions concerning the existence of a material homeland or exile. Aided by a skillful, intelligent hand and unique insight, Chopin creates delicate and fragile looking works that simultaneously transmit strength.
Complex and multi-layered, the works integrate classical jewelry materials with materials that were gathered at his living and work spaces throughout the years. The components of each piece of jewelry, as well as each work’s relationship to one with each other, range from low to high culture, from abstract to figurative, creating natural and wild micro-landscapes and well organized mini-scenes. In an associative material process, with his jewelry making tools in hand, Chopin offers an opportunity to observe a micro cosmos through his viewpoint and personal mark.

Einat Leader