Eric Candee

Artist Bio: Contemporary jewelry artist Eric Candee/In Zen Jewelry is based in the mountain town of Salida, Colorado. Internationally known for his distinctive sculptural style, Eric combines fabricated stainless steel with rich layers of enamel patina that echo the effects of time, humanity and natural forces on material. “I’m always seeking an essential purity of form with bold simplicity as a guiding principle in my work…that is my artistic zen.”
Nature’s elements and human interactions create unique layers and patinas on life and materials. Eric has focused on interpreting these effects for the past thirty years including his proprietary processes of applying fired and distressed layers of enamel on stainless steel jewelry. He is pioneering the art of finely layered patinas on jewelry that are both flexible and incredibly durable.
Environmental passion and awareness have always guided Eric’s personal and professional life. His education and degrees from Colorado State University in Biology, Botany and Ecology shaped a mindset of environmental sustainability. A full time, fine art career of mixed media environmental sculpture and painting opened the door to his focus on In Zen Jewelry. “Making unique jewelry continues to grow my artistic self in the present while constantly seeking new ways of living and creating that contribute to my commitment towards a sustainable future.”