Metalsmithing is a second career for Jill Dunn and one that has been defined by her past experiences. Jill spent forty-two years working with special needs children and adults who were intellectually delayed and seriously mentally ill at a not-for-profit where she served as the CEO.  Jill’s days were filled with problem solving where she relied on creative thinking in order to build and preserve the mission of the organization.  As her first career was winding down, she found herself drawn to the arts.  During undergraduate school Jill studied studio art and psychology  and then went on to graduate school in business and organizational management.  Jill started her art studies in painting, but in later years enjoyed working with silver, brass and copper and shaping the metal into jewelry, adding stones, textures and patinas.

Jill grew up in the Detroit area and the influence of her heritage and culture exposed her to Holocaust survivors and WWII veterans.  Many of the stories and challenges that were shared and experienced had a lifelong influence on the artist. Jill’s work reflects textures of the visions of the past with the influence of the Expressionism and Impressionism periods of art.

Jill’s family also has a great impact on her as her four children and husband are great supporters and will occasionally provide valuable input. Daily influences of the news, our surroundings, the love of trees and plants and color all provide a palate of information.

Jill is a graduate of Michigan State University with a BA and a MA.

Jill is a member of the prestigious Indiana Artisan. She is a two-time recipient of the Sagamore of the Wabash.

Jill resides in Carmel, Indiana with her husband and two energetic Wire Hair Fox Terriers! 

Click on image to view in slide show