Artist Statement
I like to use geometric shapes, architectural elements and hollow construction forms to interpret nature. In result, the work is separated into two directions. One is toward plants, flowers, gardens and the other is rocks, minerals and landscapes. The wire structures and hollow construction forms require countless soldering process, creating strength and durability in what appears to be a fragile and delicate art jewelry piece. I try to create images in my work that will tell stories and express emotions. The materials that I used are mostly 18k gold, sterling silver and precious stones. The techniques include fabrication, forming, fusing, soldering and stone setting.
“In the moon for Love” - Brooch
Narrative
Every time I see her, I have the butterfly in my stomach. It seems that I have developed a special feeling for her, but I am not sure if she feels the same. What I can do is to find a tree with a hole and tell the secret of love to the tree, just like the old tale. Hopefully, the tree will keep the secret, or tell her the secret.
Bio
Liaung Chung Yen was born and raised in Taiwan and his jewelry and artistic aesthetic is influenced by both Chinese culture and art. Yen sees his work as an expression of the mind as well as small sculptures documenting the time and emotions in which he lives.
Yen received his Master of Fine Art in Metals and Jewelry at SCAD, Savannah College of Art and Design. Prior to this he studied Industrial Art at the National Taiwan University of Art in Taiwan. He is a former Visiting Assistant Professor at Metals and Jewelry Design Department at the School of American Crafts, RIT, Rochester, NY
Awards and Publications
Awards
2016
NICHE Awards, Jewelry, Gold. "A Precious Within" - Earrings
2013
NICHE Awards, Jewelry, Gold with Stone. "The Secret Garden" - Necklace
2012
"2nd place, Gold Distinction", MJSA Vision Award. "The Garden" - Brooch/Pendant
2007
"Second Place, Natural Color Diamond Distinction" in “Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) Vision Award Design Competition”
2005
"Fellowship, New York Foundation for the Arts"
Public Collections
National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design, Olso, Norway
Museum of Contemporary Craft Teaching Collection, Portland, OR, USA
Publications
Narrative Jewelry: Tales from the toolbox(2017), New Necklaces(2016), Showcase 500 Art Necklace(2013), New Earrings(2013), Showcase 500 Rings(2012), 21st Century Jewelry: The Best of 500 Series(2011), Chains Chains Chains(2011), New Rings(2011), 500 Gemstone Jewels: A Sparkling Collection of Dazzling Designs(2010), 500 Plastic Jewelry Designs(2009), Adorn: New Jewelry(2008), 500 Wedding Rings: Celebrating a Classic Symbol of Commitment(2008), Art Jewelry Today 2(2008), 500 Earrings: New Directions in Contemporary Jewelry(2007), The Best of America – Jewelry Artists & Artisans, Volume 1(2007), Metalsmith Exhibition in print 2007, 500 Brooches: Inspiring Adornments for the Body(2005), 1000 Rings: Inspiring Adornments for the Hand(2004), Art Jewelry Today(2003).