Rae Richards
they/them
Denver, CO, USA
(jewela)rae is an emerging jeweler and artist growing mutant objects that play with gender and sexuality. their interests range from queer theory and object-oriented ontology to industrial manufacturing processes and spirituality.
“man2man is an exploration of being in t4t relationships. the work celebrates seeing and being seen with the sweetness of unexpected harmony. it caresses the overlaps of shared experience and embraces layered opacities of the skin.”
How does your work relate to the theme of flourish(ing)?
“man2man expresses the joy, excitement, and delight of being in a t4t relationship (specifically within the intricacies of a non-binary 4 non-binary, t-boy flavor). this work is a result of a flourishing t4t relationship and a tribute to feeling at home, held by one who knows the overlaps of a similar experience"
NYCJW24 @ UrbanGlass, Francely Flores
"HELL BENT", "Champlevé enamel on oxidized copper, brass findings, silver rivets, 4.5” x 3.5”, 2024"How does your creative practice allow you to flourish (grow, thrive, blossom)?
“my creative practice is an anchor, grounding me and providing a space to process, problem-solve, and grow into new possibilities. it’s a space of reflection and inquiry, often simultaneously uncomfortable and delightful. it is a crucial part of my life, my spiritual well-being, and my potential to flourish.”
NYCJW24 @ UrbanGlass, Francely Flores
As a queer+ artist, what would you like to see and/or what do you need in order to flourish during this time?
“naur :3”
“before flourishing can happen there must be destruction of all hierarchies, imperial and colonial empires. flourishing means liberation for all peoples, returning to old and welcoming new ways of being and relating to the earth, each other, and all creatures that share this planet with us. i need people to work through their discomfort, take risks, and actually put in the hard work.”
Anything else you would like to share about this work? This can be an important part of the process, sourcing materials, or research.
NYCJW24 @ UrbanGlass, Simon Leung
[queerphoria]v4 @ ECU Symposium
