Metalsmith Benchtalk: Past Favorites with Enamel Jewelry Artist Michael Romanik

This Thursday, May 7th, 2015  at 3 p.m. PST on MetalSmith BenchTalk we'll go back into the archives for a Past Favorites epiosde with artist Michael Romanik. Since 1992, Michael has created production, 'limit-production' and one-of-a-kind cloisonne' enamel jewelry. 

About: As a student studying enameling in art school, I became intrigued with the technique of cloisonne', creating linear designs and images with flat wire embedded between layers of colored granular glass. This was my first introduction to enameling. In my pursuit to learn more about this medium and wanting to perfect my skills with it, I spent many years researching and experimenting with this art form.

Some early inspiration for my work was derived from my interest in the objects and images of ancient cultures: the grandeur of ancient Egypt, the colorful painted relief carvings on Mayan architecture, the symbols of the Celts. Recent inspiration comes from nature: the vibrant plumage of a songbird, the delicate markings of a butterfly wing, the gentle curve of a small branch. A new interest is the repetitive geometric patterns and motifs of Asian and Indian textiles.

I was born in 1966 and raised in the Cleveland OH area.  My home and studio are in East Cleveland.  I am a 1989 graduate of the Cleveland Institute of Art with a BFA Degree in Drawing and minors in both Printmaking and Glass.  I am a recipient of a 2011 Creative Workforce Fellowship, generously funded by Cuyahoga Arts and Culture, The Community Partnership for Arts and Culture, and the residents of Cuyahoga County OH

For more info, visit: http://www.michaelromanik.com/.