Coalstore
COALSTORE is a new project by Something & Son, producing ornate pieces of wearable art using coal as the raw material. The pieces in the collection are produced by hand in the vaults of Somerset House by a new movement of jewellery makers and material alchemists working under the tutelage of internationally acclaimed artists, theologians, academics and philosophers from King's.
Something & Son have initiated the project with the aim of changing people's perceptions of and relationship with coal and to explore a future where coal is no longer burnt but is treasured as a material with unique properties and a rich history. Coal is a powerful material that has powered the industrial revolution, been used as make up and worn as jewellery.
COALSTORE produces handcrafted jewellery, sculptures and fashion pieces made from fossilised carbon minerals. Each piece is made under high pressure and temperatures, slowly converting ancient trees into precious rocks. A limited 'Black Sunlight capsule' collection and new shop will launch at Somerset House on 28 April 2016. The collection captures the energy of the past and is worn in support of the global climate movement.
By wearing a COALSTORE piece you express a belief that this precious rock should be treasured not burnt for the greater good of humanity, the creatures, the land, earth and sea.
COALSTORE Installation will be open to the public from: Weds 27 April – Sun 22 May 2016
Shop Opening Hours: Weds – Sun, 10.00 – 18.00
Admission: Free
Address: New Wing, Somerset House, London, WC2R 1LA
Talks and Guest Lectures
Three King's academics have been advising Something & Son. Each of the academics will be conducting either a panel discussion or talk on the subjects that surround the projects concept:
Dr Aaron Rosen, King’s College London (Lecturer in Sacred Traditions & the Arts) + Guests
Subject: Relics, Fakes, and Modern Art
Wednesday 4 May, 19.00, Screening room, Somerset House
Dr Sacha Golob, King’s College London (Lecturer in Philosophy) + Guest
Subject: Luxury and Consumerism
Monday 9 May, 19.00, Screening room, Somerset House
Christopher Hamilton, King’s College London (Senior Lecturer in the Philosophy of Religion)
Subject: Faith and Climate Change
Wednesday 18 May, 19.00, Room G16, New Wing, Somerset House
COALSTORE is supported by Arts Council England, King’s College London, Somerset House Trust, and Tipping Point.
It was supported by the university's Culture team.