Update (August 22, 2025) – The exhibition has been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.
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Southampton in New York is set to host an exhibition that unites two worlds rarely shown side by side. Contessa Gallery Southampton and Stephen Silver Fine Jewelry are coming together for The Art of the Jewel, a weeklong showcase that brings fine art and high jewelry into the same space while raising funds for the American Cancer Society. The exhibition runs from August 26 to September 2, 2025.
The collaboration is rooted in friendship and a shared philanthropic vision between Stephen Silver, Steve Hartman, and Barbara Sellinger. Mr. Silver, a gemstone expert and founder of Stephen Silver Fine Jewelry, is known for creating and curating rare jewelry pieces. Mr. Hartman, co-owner of Contessa Gallery, has built a reputation for presenting bold contemporary art on global stages. Ms. Sellinger, a longtime leader with the American Cancer Society, has worked with Mr. Silver since 2019 on philanthropic projects. Together, the three are bringing The Art of the Jewel to the Hamptons as Contessa Gallery’s first-ever fine jewelry exhibition.
Visitors will see a wide range of works, from original high jewelry designs to significant estate pieces featuring diamonds and colored gemstones. Mr. Silver describes each jewel as carrying its own story of artistry and provenance, aligning with the way Contessa presents blue-chip art. The gallery houses artists such as Salvador Dali, Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Roy Lichtenstein, and more. The exhibition also marks milestones for both collaborators – 25 years of Contessa Gallery and 45 years of Stephen Silver Fine Jewelry.
Mr. Hartman said, “…The Art of the Jewel represents more than just a milestone—it’s a meeting of minds and missions. Stephen and I connected instantly as collectors, connoisseurs, and passionate philanthropists. His creations don’t just sparkle, they speak. Every jewel he designs or curates carries a story of artistry, provenance, and intention, much like the blue-chip works we showcase at Contessa. Together, we bring over 70 years of combined experience in fine art and fine jewelry to this special exhibition, and to a shared cause that’s deeply personal. With the support of the Hamptons community, we hope to give back in a meaningful way and further the American Cancer Society’s vital mission.”
Funds raised through the exhibition will go directly toward the American Cancer Society’s work in research, early detection, treatment, recovery, and prevention programs. The event also highlights the role of private philanthropy in accelerating progress for people affected by cancer.
Ms. Sellinger said, “This exhibition is deeply personal for me. I’ve devoted much of my life to supporting causes that save lives, and the American Cancer Society is at the center of that mission. Stephen Silver has been one of our most committed partners, generous, heartfelt, and hands-on. Seeing Stephen and Steve Hartman unite their talents for The Art of the Jewel, and for a cause we all believe in, means the world. Every jewel sold brings us one step closer to ending cancer for everyone.”
The gallery at 9 Main Street will welcome both walk-ins and private appointments. Regular hours are Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Special events include a soft opening on Tuesday, August 26, a VIP reception on Thursday, August 28, and a Tumbleweed Tuesday closing party on September 2. The weeklong exhibition offers Hamptonites and visitors an opportunity to see jewelry and fine art presented together for the first time at Contessa, while supporting a cause that extends beyond the gallery walls.
