The theme of the exhibit is a play on words, "belonging" referring to "being in the right place, belonging to a group or place, to integrate naturally", while the plural "belongings" is concerned with goods, personal objects that we own. At the first level, the theme brings forth the boundary between self and the things we call "our own", while also analyzing those goods which, beyond their utility or apparent external function, become message carriers, symbols of individual and cultural identities, that connect the past with the future. In times when attention is directed mostly towards consumerism and excess of objects that we surround ourselves with, the project deals with moments of selection and renouncing of said objects, but also with moments of negotiation, when leaving a certain place.

Various recent journalistic and artistic projects have showed us images of luggage and objects brought by immigrants and refugees. Among the more useful things for a journey, there's no short supply of emotional objects - pictures, a watch, a piece of jewelry gifted by someone dear, a book, a toy. These go beyond the statute of simple objects, having a life of their own and carrying a strong message. Objects and their stories become, therefor, organic, intertwined. Furthermore, they become a cornerstone of self identity - when places and people around them change, sentimental possessions maintain a bond with the past.

9 designers have been invited to develop their collections inspired by objects they would take with them, if they had to leave their homes forever. The exhibit has been presented in 2019 during Joya Barcelona and Milano Jewelry Week.

Exhibit organized by Assamblage Association

Curator: David Sandu

Display design: Vera Davidescu

Exhibitors: Andreia Gabriela Popescu, Diana Tobosaru, Gena Tudor, Mihaela Ciocalteu, Silvia Cruceru, Renata Dragusin, Arina Nitulescu, Cleopatra Cosulet, Ludmila Buga.