For Immediate Release
Cary, NC Industrial Designer and NC State University professor invited to exhibit at The Chicago Museum of Science and Industry
Cary, NC January 7, 2007 -- Glenn Lewis, IDSA, educator and industrial designer, has been invited by The Museum of Science and Industry to display his signature jewelry designs based on the rich graphic imagery of West African Adinkra symbols at Designs for Life, the centerpiece of the museum’s annual Black Creativity Program. In celebration of Black History month, the exhibit focuses on African Americans working in industrial design and is intended to inspire young people, particularly from the African-American community, to pursue careers in Industrial Design. The exhibit will run January 12 – February 28, 2007.
Exhibit guests will explore the unique and creative contributions African Americans have made in design of the products and systems we use everyday.
“Black Creativity Designs for Life exhibit is the first show of this kind featuring work of African- American Industrial Designers, both as professional practitioners and educators. I am extremely honored to have been selected for representation in both categories,” said Lewis. “However, the most significant work I am currently engaged in is assisting the West African Artisans with product development, and technology training through collaboration with Aid to Artisan Ghana (ATAG).”
Glenn Lewis Studios creates the signature jewelry collection using the culturally rich heritage of Adinkra symbols and iconography. The symbols are figurative and stylized geometric images that convey poetic messages, proverbs or aphorisms. Originating from the Akan people of Ghana, the more than 70 symbols add uplifting, motivating and character-building messages, keeping the African-American heritage alive through its continuation in these keepsakes.
Lewis’ initial collection was comprised of rings, bands, pendants, and earrings. Shortly after launching the site, an increasing number of requests came in for engagement rings and wedding bands. Glenn responded with the design and launch of the Bridal collection which includes not only Adinkra, but adds Egyptian symbols including the Ankh and Eye of Horus.
Two new collections – ancient Mexican and Chinese symbols – are nearing completion and scheduled for launch this spring. Both collections will include engagement rings and wedding bands.
With the use of cutting-edge 3D computer-aided design technology, Lewis has optimized the manufacturing process from conceptual design stage through iterative development sketches to perfectly produced jewelry. The product line currently features necklaces, pendants, earrings, bracelets, rings, fashion accessories and a multicultural bridal line.
Currently a professor in the Department of Industrial Design at North Carolina State University, Lewis holds BFA and MFA degrees in Communication Arts, Sculpture and M.Pd. in Industrial Design with extensive study in digital technology. On sabbatical in Africa, Lewis consulted with ATAG and served as visiting lecturer at the Kwame University of Science and Technology in Kumasi, Ghana. Lewis continues his work with ATAG and a portion of all profits from Glenn Lewis Studio jewelry is returned to ATAG.
Having worked in multinational corporate product design groups, including Herman Miller, Inc., and Texas Instruments, Lewis brings his expertise in product design and manufacturing experience to his design aesthetic. As a jewelry designer, teacher, visual artist, photographer and international speaker, he has dedicated himself to meaningful communication through art, design and technology.
Visit www.glennlewis.com to view available selections, Adinkra symbols and their meanings, and to learn more about Lewis’ unique, high-tech jewelry- making process. For more information about The Museum of Science and Industry Designs for Life exhibit, visit www.msichicago.org.
