Continuing to celebrate Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary, “Ice Cold: Hip Hop Jewelry Exhibition” recently opened in the Meister Gallery in the Allison and Roberto Mignone Gem and Mineral Hall of the American Museum of Natural History (AMNHM). This special exhibition pays tribute to hip-hop’s biggest stars, their global phenomenon and the cultural impact of icons including Slick Rick, A$AP Rocky, Nicki Minaj, Jay Z, Notorious BIG, Missy Elliot, Bad Bunny, Erykah Badu and more, and Many others.
Worn by hip-hop superstars, the jewelry is bold, bold, heavy, and huge. These eye-catching gold and diamond accessories created a buzz and made a statement of individuality and power in the hip-hop world. Throughout the exhibition, viewers gaze in awe at the glittering ice gold jewelry of hip-hop royalty, which has influenced history, fashion, beauty, style and culture.
“Throughout the museum, you’ll see objects that open a window into our shared past or current world, whether it’s nature, science or culture. In Ice Cold, the exhibits are The gorgeous jewelry opens a window into the history of one of hip-hop’s most powerful social and cultural forces over the past 50 years. “We are excited to showcase these iconic pieces and… The hip-hop cultural phenomenon thus reminds our visitors that culture is not just something long ago or distant, but is a part of our lives that we can reflect on and celebrate. “
Alvaro Cordin/© AMNH Photo
Upon entering the exhibit, you’ll immediately notice the stunning introductory case filled with iconic jewelry from hip-hop’s most legendary artists, including a sparkling crown, eye patch, and 5-foot-long crown from Slick Rick chain. Rick, the exhibition’s senior consultant, pioneered the royal theme in hip-hop music. Other pieces in the case include an Adidas necklace made by Run DMC’s Jam Master Jay in honor of the 1986 hit song “My Adidas,” which sparked a relationship between the group and the athletic company A historic endorsement deal; Nas’ diamond-encrusted “QB” pendant that pays homage to the Queensbridge mansion in Queens where he grew up; and a multi-color, fully-articulated LEGO minifigure charm commissioned by A$AP Rocky.
“Cold” chronicles the evolution of hip-hop jewelry over the past five years. “Bringing the ‘Icy’ exhibition to the American Museum of Natural History is a testament to the cultural significance of this art form and culture,” said guest curator Vikki Tobak. “It’s time to celebrate the artists, jewelers, craftsmen and everyday people who have contributed to the storied history of hip-hop jewelry. The exhibition not only pays homage to hip-hop’s roots through the work of Biz Markie and Jam Master Jay, but also through the work of Tyler, the Creator, A$AP Rocky, and FERG.
Ricky “Slick Rick” Waters, hip-hop icon and senior advisor to “Ice Cold,” added, “‘Ice Cold,’ as an extension of hip-hop culture, will truly inspire excitement and curiosity about the world of jewelry and gadgets as an extension of our art. , which inspired the global stage.
“The collaboration with the American Museum of Natural History is a harmonious blend of creativity and cultural significance. I am deeply honored to be able to create a unique and immersive experience for museum visitors in such a prestigious space in New York City’s Holy Land.”
ANHM has many ice gold items on display from the 1980s. At the time, the rapper collaborated with local jewelers to create one-of-a-kind accessories, such as rapper and beatboxer Biz Markie’s brushed gold nameplate, made by K & I Jewelers at Brooklyn’s Albee Square Mall. A “drama” in the shape of a crown. The “Clock” pendant is one of his many iconic time pendants and has become his calling card.
In the 1990s, artists demanded larger pieces designed by jewelers such as Tito Caciedo of Manny’s New York and Jacob Arabo of Jacob & Co. The same goes for the giant eagle armband. Included in the exhibition are numerous brand chains, including a diamond-encrusted Roc-A-Fella medallion commemorating the record label Jay-Z co-founded, and a necklace owned by Eve representing Ruff Riders, the brand that launched her career.
The “Icy” exhibition is included with “whatever you want” general admission for residents of the New York tri-state area. Visitors viewed the exhibition with great interest. “I love it!” said one. “This is amazing,” another viewer commented. “I have to come back with my kids.”
For more information, visit www.amnh.org.
