About
Ryan Gardner Bio
Participation in the arts was always important to me growing up. A strong arts program in high school influenced my decision to pursue a degree in the arts. I chose the arts program at Bowling Green State University in northwest Ohio where I discovered and fell in love with metals. I was introduced to many artists, including Michael Boyd, who became an inspiration for me.
Upon graduation in 2009 I apprenticed for Michael Boyd at his studio in Colorado. That experience turned into a nine-year adventure where it ended with Michael and I as partners in the Colorado Center for Metal Arts. It was with Michael that I learned to work with and manipulate stone, adding a new element to my love of jewelry design.
Having started my business, Ryan Gardner Designs, in Colorado in 2010, I have moved back to Ohio and now operate my studio in my hometown. I showcase my work in galleries and shows as well as teach workshops across the country and online.
Artist Statement
Ryan's work comes from a playful experimentation with stone and metal, combining the two materials in a fun and cohesive way. Exploring new materials, shapes, colors, and processes are some of his favorite things to do and include in his work. It is very important for him to let the materials speak for themselves. Ryan likes to begin his process with a rough rock. He then cuts, polishes, and sometimes carves his stones by hand. He then hand fabricates his one-of-a-kind pieces from silver and gold really showcasing the stones.
Education
2009 BFA - Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH
Bibliography
“65th Anniversary Collection”, Lapidary Journal Jewelry Artist, May 2012
Driggs, Helen: “The Apprenticeship”, Lapidary Journal Jewelry Artist, September 2010
Texts
Boyd, Michael with Gardner, Ryan: “Saddle Mount for Hanging Earrings”, Lapidary Journal Jewelry Artist, April 2014
Gardner, Ryan: “Supercharge your sealant! Powder-coat your patina!”, Art Jewelry, January 2016
Awards
2020 Saul Bell Design Awards Finalist – Silver Category
2020 Saul Bell Design Awards 2nd Place – Jewelry Collection Category
2016 Colorado State Fair Fine Arts Exhibition, First Place – Jewelry Category
Participation in the arts was always important to me growing up. A strong arts program in high school influenced my decision to pursue a degree in the arts. I chose the arts program at Bowling Green State University in northwest Ohio where I discovered and fell in love with metals. I was introduced to many artists, including Michael Boyd, who became an inspiration for me.
Upon graduation in 2009 I apprenticed for Michael Boyd at his studio in Colorado. That experience turned into a nine-year adventure where it ended with Michael and I as partners in the Colorado Center for Metal Arts. It was with Michael that I learned to work with and manipulate stone, adding a new element to my love of jewelry design.
Having started my business, Ryan Gardner Designs, in Colorado in 2010, I have moved back to Ohio and now operate my studio in my hometown. I showcase my work in galleries and shows as well as teach workshops across the country and online.
Artist Statement
Ryan's work comes from a playful experimentation with stone and metal, combining the two materials in a fun and cohesive way. Exploring new materials, shapes, colors, and processes are some of his favorite things to do and include in his work. It is very important for him to let the materials speak for themselves. Ryan likes to begin his process with a rough rock. He then cuts, polishes, and sometimes carves his stones by hand. He then hand fabricates his one-of-a-kind pieces from silver and gold really showcasing the stones.
Education
2009 BFA - Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH
Bibliography
“65th Anniversary Collection”, Lapidary Journal Jewelry Artist, May 2012
Driggs, Helen: “The Apprenticeship”, Lapidary Journal Jewelry Artist, September 2010
Texts
Boyd, Michael with Gardner, Ryan: “Saddle Mount for Hanging Earrings”, Lapidary Journal Jewelry Artist, April 2014
Gardner, Ryan: “Supercharge your sealant! Powder-coat your patina!”, Art Jewelry, January 2016
Awards
2020 Saul Bell Design Awards Finalist – Silver Category
2020 Saul Bell Design Awards 2nd Place – Jewelry Collection Category
2016 Colorado State Fair Fine Arts Exhibition, First Place – Jewelry Category