“The JA24 exhibition reveals the intricate relationship between Earth’s raw materials and human artistry”
— DJENEBA ADUYAOUM
JA24
WINNER
JewelryArts 24 Prize (JA24), an open-call digital arts competition examining how science and art can lead to more sustainable practices in the luxury jewellery and watch space.
Launched in April 2024 by the RJC, MGMH and GIA, applicants of all ages and disciplines were invited to draw on data from the summit to create work addressing the social and environmental impact of the green energy transition and shaping a future where nature and jewellery live in harmony.
From a broad range of entries, the expert panel unanimously chose Djeneba Aduayom as the inaugural JA24 winner. “Djeneba’s work was a haunting visual feast that left an indelible mark on all of us – a true testament to the artistry and creativity that our industry fosters,” Grant says.
“Jewellery charts the history of humanity, which is why I believe there should be no barriers to entry”
— MELANIE GRANT
the judges
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Melanie Grant
RJC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
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Carmen Busquets
PHILANTROPIST
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ISABELLE BONJEAN
PHOTOGRAPHER
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Susan Jacques
CEO of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA)
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MALYIA MCNAUGHTON
DESIGNER
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Elisabetta Cipriani
DESIGNER
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STUDIO RENN
JEWELLERY DESIGN
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RACHEL GARRAHAN
PROJECT CURATOR
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NATAAL
MEDIA BRAND + CREATVE STUDIO
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CARRIE SCOTT
CURATOR, HISTORIAN, ARTIST
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DR. RAQUEL ALONSO-PEREZ
CURATRIX of the MGHM
DJENEBA ADUAYOM
Aduayom’s own journey very much speaks to JA24. The California-based artist enjoyed a successful career as a dancer before emerging as a photographer in 2011. She’s since become recognised for her editorial portraiture, fashion and art practice and has exhibited worldwide. Her surreal and often dreamy images are marked by a sense of movement and remind us of the universality of the human experience, an understanding that stems from her multicultural heritage (Togo, France and Italy) and authentic empathy for people and the planet.
ZERO WITH SILO
Silo originated in Australia back in 2011 when artist Joost Bakker introduced the concept of 'not having a bin.' Since then, Silo's chef-and owner Douglas has diligently developed the business into the world's first zero-waste restaurant.
In October 2019, Doug moved Silo to The White Building in London in partnership with CRATE Brewery. Their menu is an expression of natural farming and closed-loop cooking, demonstrating quality within sustainability.
A NIGHT WITH DJENEBA + THE RJC AT SILO LONDON
An intimate candlelit evening was held at Silo London to celebrate the JA24 winner, Djeneba Aduayoum, in collaboration with the Responsible Jewellery Council. Curated by Asoni Haus, the event beautifully showcased Djeneba's installation and art, accompanied by immersive soundscapes throughout the dinner.
Guests were treated to a zero-waste culinary experience, and the evening. Event assets are now available, with a credit sheet included. A heartfelt thank you to all the guests who joined us for this memorable night.
IN COLLABORATION WITH
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JOHNNIE WALKER
Johnnie Walker understands the importance of protecting the planet’s resources. With over 200 years of experience, the brand recognizes the need for balance between wood, water, earth, and living creatures. Committed to reducing its environmental footprint 'from grain to glass,' Johnnie Walker is working to minimize its impact, reinvent processes, and restore natural landscapes in Scotland and beyond.
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NATAAL
Nataal is a media brand and creative studio dedicated to showcasing diverse storytelling from Africa and beyond. Through its collaborative projects, Nataal offers a vibrant platform for artists, media, and events, presenting unique narratives that celebrate creativity and cultural richness. It stands as a dynamic voice, bringing together innovative perspectives across various artistic mediums.
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MUSE FRAME
Muse Frame has been working tirelessly to engage the contemporary art market with digital art, successfully hosting exhibitions at prestigious venues like the Saatchi Gallery in London and the Louvre in Paris. They are humbled by the support of artists, galleries, and some of the world’s most forward-thinking brands as their customers.
IN THE PRESS
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NATAAL
Melanie Grant and Djeneba Aduayom discuss the passions that fuel the JewelryArts 24 Prize
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FORBES
“In my creative practice I explore visual parallels of reality and fantasy,” says Aduayom, whose multicultural heritage includes Togo, France and Italy.
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RETAIL JEWELLER
Los Angeles-based artist Djeneba Aduayom has been announced as the winner of the inaugural JewelryArts 24 (JA24) Prize.
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PROFESSIONAL JEWELLER
“Djeneba’s work is a haunting visual feast that left an indelible mark on all of us – a true testament to the artistry and creativity that our industry fosters.”
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ELETOM
Djeneba Aduayom’s winning entry, ‘Atmospheric Perspective’, is a multi-technology artwork responding to global warming. Her poetic piece envisions an Earth scorched by rising temperatures and calls for viewers to protect our environment.
