During the special AJF event, Fenn pulled back the curtain on the multi-year development of the exhibition. Her work investigates the complex legacies of European colonization in Africa, tackling these weighty historical themes through a striking vocabulary of historical portrait jewelry, trade beads, micromosaic, and a deeply expanded collaboration with the Zimbabwean beading collective Marigold. Attendees at the event were treated to stunning visual highlights from the completed exhibition, while also gaining rare insight into how the AJF Solo Exhibition Award served as a vital catalyst for the project. Fenn explained how the grant created transformative opportunities for intensive research, the acquisition of new technical skills, cross-border artistic collaboration, and the production of ambitious work on a scale that simply would not have been possible otherwise.
The conversation also served as the official launchpad for the next AJF Solo Exhibition Award application cycle, now known as the Linda Peshkin Solo Award. Artists considering applying for the upcoming cycle were strongly encouraged to watch the retrospective to hear firsthand accounts of what the award can make possible, allowing them to begin envisioning the scale and scope of their own future projects.
Adding rich dimension to the retrospective discussion were several special guests who played pivotal roles in bringing Fenn’s vision to life. These included Montreal-based gallerist Noel Guyomarc’h, whose gallery hosted the exhibition; grant founder Linda Peshkin, whose vision and generosity established the award; and Marta Costa Reis, the dedicated chair of AJF’s Awards and Grants committee. Together, the panel provided a holistic view of the award’s impact, looking at the journey from the perspective of the artist, the patron, the gallerist, and the organization.
The event also offered a wealth of supplementary resources and professional connections for those inspired by Fenn’s multidisciplinary approach. Throughout the conversation, important references and digital links were shared with the audience to encourage further exploration of the artists, galleries, and collectives involved in the project. For those wishing to explore Fenn’s broader artistic footprint, her official website and Instagram profile offer deeper glimpses into her portfolio. Similarly, the digital home and social media channels of Galerie Noel Guyomarc’h provide permanent documentation of the Montreal exhibition’s physical installation and reception.
A central theme of the retrospective was Fenn’s dedication to mastering traditional and historical craft techniques through mentorship and international partnerships. During the conversation, Fenn discussed learning the intricate art of micromosaic from expert Rebecca Di Filippo, whose contemporary enamel work and educational contributions have expanded the technical boundaries of modern jewelry. Additionally, Fenn highlighted her profound collaboration with the Marigold Collective, a Zimbabwean beading cooperative whose traditional artistry and craftsmanship breathe living history into contemporary adornment. The artist also acknowledged the intellectual and creative influence of fellow artist Joni Brenner, whose work has resonated deeply with Fenn’s own artistic inquiries.
For artists inspired by Fenn’s trajectory, the application cycle for the 2027 Linda Peshkin Solo Award is officially underway. Creators interested in applying can access the application portal online, with submissions remaining open until the firm deadline of November 15, 2026. Comprehensive application guidelines, eligibility requirements, and background details are also hosted directly on the Art Jewelry Forum website.
For those who missed the live retrospective or wish to revisit specific segments of the dialogue, AJF has curated a robust digital archive. This includes a series of exclusive mini-interviews featuring Geraldine Fenn, Noel Guyomarc’h, and Linda Peshkin, which were originally filmed around the time of the exhibition’s opening in Montreal to capture the immediate excitement, collaborative spirit, and artistic triumph of Dispatch from the Colonies.
