The Baltimore Jewelry Center will host Waxcast: Creations by Earl Jones, a retrospective exhibition honoring the life, work, and creative legacy of prolific Baltimore artist and jeweler Earl Jones (1951-2024). Co-curated by Allison Gulick and Elliot Keeley Waxcast: Creations by Earl Jones will be on view in the BJC’s gallery in Baltimore’s Station North Arts & Entertainment District (10 E. North Ave.) from June 27 through August 8 with an opening reception on Friday, June 27 from 5 to 8pm and a closing reception on Friday, August 8 from 5 to 9pm. Both events are free and open to the public.
The exhibition features Jones’ jewelry, sculpture, and wall hangings, as well as images and ephemera from his multifaceted life creating an intimate portrait of an unassuming genius. The exhibition highlights three major facets of his career: his early sculptural pieces, the development of his casting business and specialized casting machine, in addition to the evolution of his practice as a jeweler. Well-known for his culturally specific aesthetic and his remarkable heat patinas, the exhibition showcases work from every period of Earl’s career and reflects his obsessive commitment to craftsmanship and quality. From simple copper rings to intricate castings, his dedication to perfecting his craft is ever present. Through the exhibition, viewers will gain insight into the remarkable depth and breadth of Earl’s career, as well as his contributions to the broader arts ecosystem — particularly his support for and involvement in spaces for Black creatives.
“We’re honored to host this exhibition celebrating the life and legacy of Earl Jones,” say co-curators Allison Gulick and Elliot Keeley. “Earl was an extraordinary artist and individual whose contributions to jewelry, metalsmithing, and spaces for Black creatives deserve greater recognition. With Waxcast, we hope to share his remarkable story and ensure that his work and impact are widely celebrated.”
Special thanks to the William G. Baker, Jr. Memorial Fund, creator of the Baker Artist Portfolios, www.BakerArtist.org, for their support of this project.