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| Keith
Belles |
 Just as the artifacts of the
Aztec, Mayan, Egyptian, and Native American civilizations have
given me insight into their respective cultures, through my
designs I try always to reflect the cultures to which I am exposed.
I often incorporate unusual, natural materials, such as meteorite
fragments, fossils, and custom-carved gemstones into my one-of-a-kind
pieces. These materials mirror my fascination with the natural
elements of the Earth, and the mystery of the sun and stars.
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Keith Belles grew up in rural
central Indiana. His family was instrumental in his pursuit
of a career in art. At the age of eleven, his father taught
him the craft of cutting and polishing stones, and also exposed
him to the arts of woodworking and photography. Later, Keith's
sister taught him in high school art class, and encouraged him
to pursue art as a career. Heeding her advice, Keith studied
ancient art and jewelry in college, then went on to earn his
living from his skill and creativity.
A talented, self-taught figurative carver, Keith lays claim
to over 15,000 carvings. His low relief carvings are cast
(using the lost wax process) into platinum, sterling silver
and 18K gold. Keith received Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees
in Sculpture and Metalsmithing from Indiana State University.
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"Wildflower" earrings in 18K gold with .36tw diamonds |
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