Artist Statement ~ By nature I am a collector. Not only curating objects, but concepts, attitudes, and memories. I’m drawn to unique things with age and character. It is why I appreciate antiques, and why I find the fine cracks on the surface of a beautiful Baroque painting so appealing.
My work explores the concept of curating, expressed usually, but not exclusively, through nature-based themes. The individual traits that make an item unique act as a catalyst for my work. Gathering spectacular traits from multiple sources, I create a composition that celebrates the original. Some sources are obvious and some are not, but all are edited by my curator’s eye.
Although some of my work may have different thematic content, it is all linked by these unique qualities. Whether it is the symmetry in the gills of a mushroom, or the natural process of age and decay, my work tries to capture and emphasize those special properties.
About Patrik Kusek
“Patrik’s extensive background in design and fashion has been instrumental in shaping his unique creative perspective and brand. He holds degrees from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising and The Academy of Art University. Beginning his career as a Fashion Stylist at Macy’s San Francisco, he later founded Wallop Design Group, where he served as the Creative Director, specializing in graphic design and branding.
Currently, Patrik actively pursues his passion as a jewelry artist and educator, conducting metal clay workshops both locally in the San Francisco Bay Area and globally. Notably, he is recognized for his expertise being both PMC Guild Certified and Art Clay Certified. Patrik has also served as one of Rio Grande’s top senior instructors, leading PMC certification workshops worldwide.
His work has garnered attention, including features on HGTV’s “That’s Clever” and publications in various books and magazines such as Ornament magazine. Being the recipient of prestigious accolades like the 2007 Saul Bell Award (1st place) and 2016 (2nd place), Patrik continues to make waves in the jewelry industry, most recently winning Best in Show in the Superbly Sintered 2024: Masterful Designs in Metal Clay exhibition.