Exhibition Runs: April 23 – May 30, 2026
Reception & Artist Talks: Saturday May 16, 4:30pm – 6:30pm
Artist Panel Talks
We invite you to join us for an exhibition reception and artist panel talks at Harwood Art Center by the artists on Saturday, May 16, 2026 from 4:30p – 6:30p with the artist panel talks starting at 5:00pm. This event is free and open to all ages.
Gallery Hours:
Thursday – Saturday, 10am-3pm
“How can the art of jewelry making become a bridge that tells our personal stories and strengthens the bonds within our community?
“Jewelry making ignites storytelling and community connection! The Jewelry Uplift initiative promotes creativity
and teaches new skills, builds relationships, and creates stronger communities. Jewelry Uplift opens a wellspring of inspiration that brings the hands, minds, and spirits of our Albuquerque community closer together. We are dedicated to enhancing educational experiences by providing and encouraging sustainable community partnerships, alumni mentorship, exploratory theme based workshops, art show participation, professional jewelry opportunities and so much more! Jewelry Uplift is an example of what is possible for students, teachers, families and communities. Jewelry Uplift is ALL of us!”
ABOUT JEWELRY UPLIFT
Jewelry Uplift is a Community School program that represents an innovative approach to arts education that transcends traditional classroom boundaries. Founded in 2023 by Lisa Gillett, Jewelry Instructor at Albuquerque High School, and Eddie Donato, an AHS alumnus and artist, Jewelry Uplift exemplifies how educational initiatives can serve as catalysts for community engagement and student empowerment. The Jewelry Uplift program operates on the principle that innovative educational opportunities and project based learning serve as “synapses”—creating vital connections between students, educators and the broader community, highlighting that learning occurs most effectively when multiple pathways of knowledge and experience intersect. Lisa and Eddie began with a classroom transformation, which reflected the evolving jewelry program by bringing students, families and community partners together to help fund and breathe a vibrant energy into Jewelry Uplift. In the Spring of 2025, Lisa and Eddie, with the support of Rio Grande Jewelry and volunteer instructors, began offering free community jewelry classes that give people of all ages an engaging space to learn new skills, nurture their creativity and forge authentic connections.
FEATURED ARTISTS
Abby Perce, A. Kader, A. Hartman, A. Quinones, B. Rivera, Ben Barreres, Bowie Parnall, Brooke Steiger, C. Silva, Carol Sinor, Cathryn Cunningham, D. Hernandez, D. Rodgers, D. Candelaria, Eddie Donato, EJ Montana, Elena Dunn, G. Candelaria, Grace Hawkins Perce, I. Alvarado, I. Soroos, J. Lucero, Jessica Mills, K. Hardeman, K. Bonson, K. Watkins, Kaya Perce, Keely Mackey-Gonzales, L. Lopez, L. Esquival, Lelia Smith, Lisa Gillett, Lorelei Candelaria, L. Cok, Mack Farel, M. Madrid Larranaga, Maya Suazo, MB Ramos, Michelle Holdt, Michelle Sanchez St. Andre, Miranda Chun, Noell Stone, O. Munoz, O. Brosco-Seaman, P. Moran, Paul Deblassie, Ron Ortiz, S. Bloise, Sasha Custer, S. Chavez, Taylor Traub and Suzanne Oakdale.
Eddie’s Blessing for Jewelry Uplift
“May the gathering of all our energies, efforts, love and labor bring about transformation, and open up a wellspring of inspiration. May these labors create a sanctuary where all can be vulnerable as they express themselves creatively. Bless each hand, mind and spirit who share in this work. And may an energy of peace, clarity and love fill this space.” – Edward Donato