Amber Ruden
- INquire
- Biography/Statement
"I am an artist and art teacher living in Iowa City, Iowa. I grew up in Dubuque, Iowa and I was introduced to metalsmithing during a high school art class. I was so enamored with the material of metal, that I went on to receive my B.F.A in jewelry/metal arts from the University of Iowa. I am currently working towards a Master’s Degree in Art Education.
As an artist I am constantly finding inspiration through my environment and through my travels. My work serves as a visual record of the places I visit and the things I see while exploring different geological and topographical locations. In my work I am always experimenting with different ways that I can fabricate metal, and by melting and striking the silver I am able to achieve organic, stone-like shapes. I also use casting, etching, patination, and enameling to bring out the colors and textures of the materials. My natural and organic aesthetic is often contrasted with geometric shapes or brighter colors to create a dichotomy between nature and humans imprint on nature."