In this episode, we dive into the world of sustainable art and jewelry with Susie, a passionate artist and co-director of the Radical Jewelry Makeover (RJM) project. Join hosts Rachel and Kahmeela as they explore the ethos behind RJM, a traveling community jewelry mining and recycling initiative that transforms old, unused jewelry into new, vibrant pieces. Susie shares her journey from traditional metalsmithing to embracing recycled materials, revealing the environmental and emotional motivations behind her work.
Discover the profound questions RJM raises about mining, material reuse, and the cultural perceptions of value. Susie discusses the impact of gold mining on the environment and the importance of creating a sustainable supply chain for jewelry materials. She also touches on the personal stories attached to donated jewelry and how these narratives inspire the creation of new pieces.
Susie's reflections on the impermanence of art and the importance of making space for future generations offer a fresh perspective on sustainability and creativity. This episode is a deep dive into the intersection of art, environment, and community, encouraging us all to rethink our relationship with the materials we use and the stories we tell.
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