Stephen F. Austin State University

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - When the average person thinks of "jewelry," undoubtedly necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings with stones or precious metals come to mind. However, "Complicating Communication," an exhibition on display in the window of the Sherry Ward Fine Arts Gallery in downtown Nacogdoches, invites viewers to reconsider their concept of jewelry.

The exhibition consists of five mannequins displaying jewelry pieces fashioned from copper, steel and found objects such as ipods and other electronic devices. Any art piece that is designed to be worn or relies on the body to have full meaning can be classified as "jewelry," explained Ryan Ainsworth, the exhibition's creator.

The display is a comment on the effect recent innovations in technology have had on social interaction, Ainsworth said. "The infiltration of the iPod and other personal musical devices allow for individuals to be spared the awkwardness of interactions with strangers."

"These devices intend to give the user freedom; to be independent and choose their own music; but rather these devices alienate and isolate the person from the rest of the world," he continued. "My exhibition communicates these ideas with lighthearted cynicism."

"Technological Barrier" is the winner of a juried contest sponsored by the Stephen F. Austin State University School of Art and Ward's gallery. SFA art students entered the contest, "the window project: considering space," by submitting a proposal for an exhibition that would fit in the window of Ward's gallery.

The exhibition was juried by Ward and SFA adjunct faculty members Chet Geiselman and Dana Sperry.

Ainsworth, a Nacogdoches resident who will graduate from SFA with a Bachelor of Arts in May, was already working on the jewelry pieces for his final show, but winning the contest provided him with additional funds and a space within the larger community for displaying his work.

Anita Powell, SFA assistant professor who coordinated the contest, said she hopes the contest will become an annual event. "Sherry's generosity with her space exposes our students' work to the Nacogdoches community, and the space restrictions provide interesting challenges to the artists."

Ward's gallery is located at 407 E. Main Street. The exhibition will run through Sunday, April 29.