Every year, members of the American Jewelry Design Council go somewhere interesting. These retreats are part of the culture of sharing which is at the core of the Council. Members explore a new destination through the eyes of jewelry designers- not necessarily with a loupe, but with a depth of a mutual understanding coming from careers in the visual arts.
It is at these retreats that members reconnect, see lifelong friends, and have their annual meeting where new candidates are considered for invitation to join. Jewelry making can be a solitary endeavor. Getting out and celebrating mutual experience is a refreshing change.
This year’s retreat will take place in Toronto Canada, where members will explore that great city’s cultural offerings and participate with George Brown College jewelry students. Over the last years, the AJDC has focused on giving back to younger and upcoming jewelry students in North America. Workshops, slideshows, and critiques help a younger generation see they can survive and thrive as independent jewelry designers. It is a rarified message, and one the AJDC is in a unique position to convey.