Anton Yakushev

Artist Statement

Being a metal artist, sculpture is the foundation of all my work. My jewelry is not simply decorative but one-of-a-kind, wearable sculpture, hand-forged in fire. Combining stainless steel with gold, silver and diamonds, I push beyond traditional smithing, the result is a striking fusion of contrasts: raw yet refined, industrial yet elegant. Using traditional blacksmithing techniques alongside signature methods I’ve developed over two decades, I create pieces that reflect a deep respect for material & process, while standing apart as a bold, original form. My art has been exhibited all over the world and is held in permanent collections including the National Ornamental Metal Museum in TN, the High Desert Museum in OR in the US.

I am quite skeptical of the romantic notion of “inspiration.” I believe that an artist should rely on discipline and the capacity for sustained work, and that inspiration is really the ability to bring oneself into a working state. As Pushkin once said, “Inspiration is the ability to put oneself to work.” I contrast romanticism with the harsh reality of labor, where what matters is the search for metaphysical essence and constant movement, rather than the passive waiting for a “spark.”

In recognition of my innovation and dramatic originality, PBS featured my work for its mastery and groundbreaking vision in 2024. Each jewel is a unique, wearable masterpiece - sculpture scaled to the body and simply unlike any other jewelry being made today.

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/russian-artist-opposed-to-putins-war-in-ukraine-finds-refuge-in-oregon