Artists are encouraged to interpret the theme broadly. A lyric may become a starting point for a material choice, a formal structure, a personal memory, a political statement, a love letter, a moment of grief, a celebration, or something entirely unexpected. The work does not need to illustrate the lyrics literally. Instead, we are interested in how jewelry can hold sound, story, emotion, and meaning in physical form.

This exhibition welcomes wearable work with a retail value of $5000 or less. We will accept work in a wide range of materials and approaches, including traditional metalsmithing, enamel, fiber, found objects, mixed media, and experimental contemporary jewelry. All submissions must be wearable, meaning they are able to fit some part of the human form without harm to the wearer. No commercially manufactured jewelry will be considered.

Selected works will be exhibited at Art for the People Gallery in Austin, Texas during the month October, when the Austin City Limits Music Festival or ACL is held, placing contemporary art jewelry in conversation with Austin’s music culture. Each selected piece will be displayed alongside the lyric that inspired it, giving viewers an entry point into the artist’s concept.

The exhibition is open to artists at different stages of their careers, including students, emerging artists, and established makers. All selected works must be available for sale at AFTPG (50% commission for sales) during the exhibition. AFTPG will display the pieces in person and online. AFTPG will handle the sales and shipping of all items to buyers. 

There will be 3 cash prizes awarded: Best of Show ($500), People’s Choice ($400) and Best Student Work ($300).

The jury will consist of studio and brand jewelers, gallerists, and industry influencers. Jurors will consider: how well the work evokes the lyric, innovation, technical ability, and wearability, respectively.