Heidi Lowe Gallery jewelers’ exhibit open

Heidi Lowe Gallery will host several events this summer, ranging from art shows to jewelry-making classes.

An exhibit called Alliance will feature work by Kate Furman and Kate Mess now through Saturday, July 22. Both artists' jewelry features flora and natural elements.

"The Alliance show is a wonderful way to kick off our summer season," Lowe said. "Both artists are inspired by nature. They interpret their environment and create truly beautiful pieces of jewelry."

Both Furman and Mess are inspired by the environment surrounding their homes. Furman lives in the wilderness of South Carolina. "My work is like a sketchbook of where I have been and what I have seen," Furman said.

Mess, who works on the coast of Maine, observes the natural moments of wonder of her environment. Her jewelry combines experimental printmaking techniques with traditional enameling. "I revel in the splendor throughout the seasons and the opportunities to escape to untouched paradises," she said. "My studio work often responds to these observations of my life, my environment and my medium itself."

For those who are inspired by the work Furman and Mess or are interested in making their own jewelry, the gallery will host several jewelry-making classes from 6 to 9 p.m., Tuesdays, starting July 11. The classes will focus on the following: July 11 - Beach Glass Pendant; July 18 - Texture Earrings; July 25 - Make a Silver Ring; Aug. 1 - Gemstone Pendant; Aug. 8 - Texture Earrings; Aug. 15 - Make a Silver Ring; and Aug. 22 - Beach Glass Pendant. The classes cost $100 per person, and class size is limited to six. Students must be at least 13 years old to join a class.

Students will learn basic metalsmithing techniques including sawing, hammering, sanding, filling, soldering and finishing. The classes are created with beginners in mind. All classes use sterling silver, and the fee for materials is included in the price of the class.

"The summer evening jewelry-making classes are meant to be a fun way to be creative in a stress-free environment," Lowe said. "Friends can come learn a new craft together or students can meet new friends with similar interests. All projects can be customized to accommodate your personal style."

The gallery will feature several artists at Art in the Yard events from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesdays, July 28, Aug. 22 and Sept. 19.

The Earrings Galore exhibit features dozens of artists' original takes on earrings and will be on display throughout the summer.

Heidi Lowe Gallery's hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday. The address is 328 Rehoboth Ave. in Rehoboth Beach. For more information, go to heidilowejewelry.com. To sign up for the jewelry-making classes, register online or call 302-227-9203.