About the Artist
E. Douglas Wunder
• Metalsmith •
The study of metalsmithing is exciting for Doug, because he says it allows him to create detailed objects in miniature. The manner in which individual components flow and contrast with one another, completing interesting geometric patterns, is much the feel of his work. Inspiration comes from the combination of natural and technological objects.
The jewelry he creates involves a variety of metals, although he states that titanium remains his favorite. It possesses ideal qualities for jewelry design. It is an inert and hypoallergenic material. Titanium also has the strength of steel, yet is similar in weight to aluminum. The metal has a dark gray tone that works well when combined with silver and gold. Titanium can also render a beautiful array of colors through the application of heat or electricity.
The creative process is done without assistants, and Doug always begins with a technical drawing. Then the pieces are cut specifically to fit the demands of the intended design. He does take advantage of technology by having some components laser cut however, the majority of the work is carried out by the artist. After the pieces are cut, individual parts are connected with a system of rivets. The artist primarily uses titanium in his work. Depending on the demands of the design, he combines gold and/or silver metals to enhance and add personality to a finished piece. His goal is to create unique jewelry designs that are well made, pleasing to the eye, and fun to make. Doug tries to express each piece in a clean, detailed, and dramatic manner.
Although jewelry is central to his livelihood, the artist has many other passions. Doug lives with his wife Amy and his daughter Annabel in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. Doug also trains regularly in Shorin-ryu karate, and holds a 2nd degree black belt. When time provides, Doug like to read and watch movies. In addition, he enjoys cooking, playing horshoes, and is an avid Iowa Hawkeye football fan.
Jewelry Design
The Process
Materials
Titanium: This material is used in all of my designs. Titanium is a metallic gray metal found in the periodic table of elements (Ti). It is as strong as steel yet has the weight of aluminum. This metal is inert and hypoallergenic.
Bi-Metal: I use this material in many of my pieces. Fusing a layer of gold to a silver base produces bi-metal. The composition is 5% 18-karat gold and 95% sterling silver.
One of a Kind
