The remarkable Daniel Brush (1947-2022) was one of America's most celebrated and innovative jewelers of the 20th and 21st centuries. A polymath whose talents included painting, sculpting, metalwork, jewelry design, and even poetry, Brush was a magician steeped in metallurgy, philosophy, and the history of art. He utilized such high art materials as pure gold, diamonds, and precious stones while also embracing plastic, aluminum, and steel. His work defies easy definition, but is instantly recognizable and thrillingly unique. Mr Brush passed away in late November of this year; it is a profound loss for the jewelry world and for aesthetes worldwide.

As jewelry historians, we are presented with a rare opportunity to hear Beth Carver Wees, Curator Emerita, The American Wing, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where for over 20 years she oversaw the collections of American silver, jewelry, and other metalwork. She lectures internationally and is the author of numerous articles and books. She was one of six organizing curators for The Met's 2018-19 exhibition, "Jewelry: The Body Transformed", as well as a contributor to its catalogue. Her exhibition "Jewelry for America" was on view at The Met from June 2019 to May 2021. And perhaps most importantly, Ms. Wees knew Daniel Brush well, offering us the ability to obtain insights into his mindset and work ethic; her talk will offer an overview of his career emphasizing the passion, creativity, and drive that enabled him to achieve his seemingly impossible goals.