Artist Statement
Symbols, meditations, memories left by ancient people in stone, wood and metal.
From the mists of Mesopotamia to the mysteries of the Nile to the grandeur of the Yucatan, cultures of the ancient ones have fueled my mind with inspiration. In the simplicity of form and material, there resonates an exciting elegance.
My designs are influenced by adornments from ancient, classical and non-western civilizations and cross-cultural motifs; and, being a native Puget Sounder, I also draw inspiration from the extraordinary environment of the Pacific Northwest.
Preparation for my art comes from mentoring under renowned jeweler, John Machlan at Guild Hall Northwest; studies in Northwest Coast Indian art & culture with Dr. Herbert Taylor and Chief Don Lelooska; and degrees from Washington State University & Western Washington University.
My designs combine an enchanting fusion of textures, hues and natural materials that are at times saucy and sometimes more traditional.
After retiring from 29 years in education, I opened a studio in my home; and I am pleased to note that my pieces are proudly worn by radiant clients across Canada, the US, Central and South America. .
RESUME’ Brian Buntain
Frog Hollow Design
PO Box 181, Joyce, WA 98343
360-709-0359
Objective:
With the lost-wax casting process, and various traditional and inventive fabrication techniques, it is my objective to create adornments that create a sense of wonderment in the viewer, and radiance in the wearer.
Experience
Seeking the relaxed chaos of the artist’s life, I retired from a rewarding career in education in 2005. Always an integral function of education, creative energies have found a renewed outlet for me in making jewelry. Inspired by my love of the Pacific Northwest and the mysteries of the ancient ones, especially the culture and art of the Northwest Coast Indians, I utilize various processes to create pieces that dazzle and surprise.
Education
BS – Washington State University, 1965-69
BEd – Western Washington University, 1978-80
Graduate Studies – Pacific Lutheran University; University of Puget Sound; Portland State University; St. Joseph’s University; Seattle Pacific University; 1984-1990
Mentoring – Jewelry Making: Design, Techniques, & Practices with John Machlan, Guild Hall Northwest, 2003-2008
Shows
Jan 2010 to present – The Blue Whole Gallery, Sequim, WA
Jan 2011to present – Northwest Native Expressions Gallery, Blyn, WA
Dec 2011–Jan 2012 – Art is a Gift, Fine Arts Center, Port Angeles, WA
Nov 1-30, 2011 – Men in Blue, The Blue Whole Gallery, Sequim, WA
May3-28, 2011 – Sequim Arts Juried Art Show; one piece accepted:
Rialto Rocks
Oct. 1-31, 2010 – Portraits and Pendants, The Blue Whole Gallery
May 1-31, 2010 – Sequim Arts Juried Art Show; Two pieces accepted:
Intrusion and Toltec Awakening
Nov 2010-Jan 2011 – Art is a Gift, Fine Arts Center, Port Angeles, WA
Nov – Dec 2010 – The Waterfront Gallery, Port Angeles, WA
July – Sept 2010 – The Landings Gallery, Port Angeles, WA
Aug 2009 & 2010 – Paws in the Garden, Sequim
Dec 2009 – Hot Art on a Cold Night, Sequim, WA
2009 – The Dove’s Nest, Sequim, WA
2007-2008 – Washington State Legislature Gift Shop, Olympia, WA
Dec 2006 & 2007 – A Celtic Christmas, Lacey, WA
Aug & Nov 2005 & Nov 2006 – Frog Hollow Studio, Olympia, WA
Awards
2010 Merit Award, Sequim Arts Juried Art Show – Toltec Awakening
2005 Historic Preservation Award, City of Tumwater
1998 Outstanding Educator Award, Oregon-California Trails Association
1998 Historian of the Year, City of Tumwater
1992 Christa McAuliffe Award, Washington Superintendent of Public Instruction
Frog Hollow Design
PO Box 181, Joyce, WA 98343
360-709-0359
Find more of Brian’s work at www.froghollowdesign.com