Wolfgang Vaatz

Artist Statement

I create one of a kind fine art jewelry. As an artist with a sculpting and painting background, I am not taught in traditional jewelry making and approach jewelry differently. My design compositions always reflect the balance and interconnection in nature. I consider myself an interpreter who allows for the spirit of nature to be conveyed through my jewelry. I want others to truly feel and experience nature. Furthermore, it is my intention to shift the focus of designing jewelry from simply beautifying the wearer to meaningfully celebrating nature; engaging conversation and inviting us to personally connect with nature in a meaningful way.
Seeking to create sustainably, I use ethically sourced precious & semi-precious gemstones, 22-23.5k placer gold (unrefined natural gold flakes, obtained from CA prospectors) and recycled metals: 22k and 18k gold sheet on sterling silver, 14k gold of various colors and argentium silver. These creations are hand-fabricated by soldering and welding. Scenes are carved, engraved, and deliberately textured with layered metals, finally oxidized and re-sanded as needed.