Kim Harrell | Audacity

Artist: Kim Harrell, Colorado
Materials: fine silver
Size: 6.75

Artist Statement: Frank Gehry’s work has been described as ‘audacious’ in that he pushes the barriers of what architecture is and can be. His choice of materials and forms have literally changed the landscape. ‘Audacity’ uses contrasting elements of texture and finish and was created in the spirit of, and homage to, Gehry's work. The ring is totally constructed of fine silver and is hollow; the band inside the main form is not soldered to the body of the ring. These qualities challenge conventional jewelry fabrication rules. Oh, the audacity…

Artist Bio: Kim Harrell is a silversmith and jewelry artist who makes distinctly textured and clean-lined jewelry and silver wares primarily using precious metals and occasionally combined with gemstones or unconventional materials such as felt, rubber and steel. She studied at the London Metropolitan University, Sir John Cass School of Art, Architecture and Design where she obtained her B.A. in Silversmithing, Jewellery and Allied Crafts. Kim was born in Denver, CO and currently resides in Aurora, CO where she runs her studio and teaches at The Art Students League of Denver. Kim is the current President of the Colorado Metalsmithing Association (CoMA).
Kim’s work can be found in private and corporate collections in the USA and Europe. The Kirkland Museum of Fine & Decorative Art in Denver acquired a set of her silver sculptural spoons that are currently on display in the Sculpture section.
'The jewelry and silverware I make is informed by a philosophy of ‘less is more.’ My work specifically expresses an emphasis of line, attention to edges, form, and texture whether working with one or multiple materials. Through the use of traditional and non-traditional methods, the qualities of each material are celebrated. I want the viewer to experience a sense of wonder at the elegant beauty of the materials as expressed through the creation of a new distinctive object.'

This ring was part of Battle of the Rings: Ring Smackdown 2024, an online exhibition and competition. View the entire collection HERE, view the matches HERE, and learn more HERE.