Radical Jewelry Makeover (RJM) raises awareness of the connection between mining, metalsmithing, activism, collaboration and art. It involves volunteer "miners," "smelters," "refiners," jewelers, and metalsmiths working together to create a new and transparent supply chain. This international community mining and recycling project focuses on education and collaboration. It brings together jewelers and the community to raise awareness of the ethical and environmental issues within the jewelry industry’s supply chain, all while working to create new pieces of jewelry from recycled sources.

This project is both performance and event, linking recycling, reuse and collaborative work sessions with the creation of unique, innovative, handmade jewelry, which concludes with an exhibition and reception. The project is currently directed by Susie Ganch and Kathleen Kennedy. In 2007 Ganch developed the project in collaboration with Christina Miller.

The project has taken place in communities around the world (a list can be found on the RJM website) and each installment draws attention to the creativity and skills of local jewelry designers. The project allows for a re-consideration of habits of consumption and resource awareness.

RJM is an educational project of Ethical Metalsmiths, a nonprofit focused on Inspiring responsible jewelry practices through education, connection, and action.

www.radicaljewelrymakeover.org

www.ethicalmetalsmiths.org