Todd Conover is a passionate studio artist as well as an Associate Professor in The School of Design at Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY. With a 25-year background in fashion design, Todd was prompted by his passion for collecting American Arts and Craft metalwork to become a more sophisticated collector and he began to learn some basic metal skills.

Soon, he was obsessed with learning traditional hand metalworking techniques and producing a body of his own work. It was a natural transition from fashion design to jewelry, which is now the main focus of his artistic life. About his process, Todd says that while he does not often start creating with a predetermined concept, his work is certainly a vehicle for expression of memory and experience.

With a mix of unexpected yet related materials Todd Conover jewelry tends to be overtly bold with inspiration harnessed from natural forms that will highlight surface and materials. Color is added by the use of freeform shaped cabochons of rock, gemstones and glass, faceted stones and enamel as well as ancient patina techniques.

He says he is never without a source of macro inspiration and conceptual discovery, and at the same time, is always searching for small shapes, patterns, details, and textures that will fuel a creative spark. The combination is an important part of Todd’s creative process and keeps the surprise of artistic output alive.