The Constellations: Exploring Unique Wearable Jewelry

Since 1950, the Dallas Museum of Art has built one of the most extensive and diverse collections of contemporary jewelry in the United States. Many of them have rarely been seen by the public. However, from July 10, 2026, to January 3, 2027, the Chrysler Museum of Art offers a rare opportunity to view this unique collection through Constellations: Contemporary Jewelry from the Dallas Museum of Art. Featuring more than 350 wearable works made by 230 artists from 41 countries, the Constellations exhibition discovers how artists approach aesthetics, functionality and creativity in jewelry making.

The Constellations exhibition is organized into four thematic sections, with the title of each section evoking an intriguing aspect for visitors to explore in depth. “Zones of the Body” examines how how jewelry interacts with the human form. “Archetypes” showcases how artists use basic geometric shapes and abstraction to design their arts. “Signals” explores hidden meanings in the materials and design. “Play” celebrates witty design and a playful, creative spirit in jewelry making.

These sections act as four "constellations," where no single work stands in isolation. Explaining the way the Constellations exhibition was organized, Mark A. Castro, director of curatorial affairs at the Chrysler Museum, said: “As Sarah Schleuning, the organizing curator of the show at the Dallas Museum of Art, looked across this diverse group of works, certain connections began to emerge — like constellations.” Much like constellations help stargazers map a structure onto the vast night sky, these groupings allow visitors to navigate the path among the diverse artworks on display. Furthermore, according to Castro, “Visitors are invited to chart their own constellations across the exhibition as well.” They do not participate in the Constellations exhibition passively. Instead, they contribute unique interpretations and discover new connections among more than 350 pieces.

The Constellations exhibition revealed an extraordinary range of materials, forms, and ideas. One of the most notable pieces is David Bielander’s The Big Apple Neckpiece, a tiara and necklace that resembles the Statue of Liberty’s crown. The interesting thing is that, at first glance, it looks as though it were made of pieces of cardboard stapled together, but upon closer inspection, it turns out to be a crown crafted from real gold and silver. Besides, the exhibition features exceptional works, such as necklaces made from plastic bags and brooches shaped like toast.

Speaking about the Constellations exhibition, Castro said: “I think visitors will find themselves rethinking jewelry-not only as something we encounter in everyday life, but as a powerful medium for contemporary art. Everything is truly wearable. Is it practical? That’s up for debate.”Constellations: Contemporary Jewelry from the Dallas Museum of Art demonstrates that jewelry is not merely an adornment, it is a statement by both the creator and the wearer regarding aesthetics, function, and ideas - elements that are constantly evolving with the times.