Artists > Tamara Woltanski

I knew even when I was little I wanted to be a jeweler. I discovered my passion by hammering out pieces of scrap copper wire from my Dad’s workshop creating my first jewelry pieces. As learning more about my passion increased, so did desire to learn more about fine stones and precious metals. But even the simplicity of a beach stone inspires me. People always ask me about my inspiration. To me, God is our greatest, unpredictable, and out of the box artist (as shown by nature’s masterpieces; sunsets, beaches, and rolling hills). But alongside the smooth curves of nature is the crisp harsh lines of man made cit-scrapes that coincide with nature in my artwork. Other inspirational favorites are Georgia O’Keefe, Vincen Van Gogh, and Lalique. These individuals showed unpredictability, unique views of beauty in the simples of places, immaculate detail of nature, and play on color and texture.

I have been a custom jeweler for more than thirty years and an artist since I could hold a hammer or paintbrush. I grew up in Southeastern Michigan and received my Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in jewelry from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo. I have worked as a custom jeweler at several retail jewelry stores and also taught at the Kalamazoo Intitute of Arts in downtown Kalamazoo. These experiences taught me how to be refined in my craft and how to deal with many differing styles of people.

My passion for jewelry has lead me to create jewelry for many intriguing and unique individuals. People who seek and buy custom jewelry are searching for something special. They look for one of a kind heirloom pieces, that speak to them and reflect who they are. I am the most thankful, spiritual, and happiest when I am crafting my jewelry pieces. I hope you enjoy my masterpieces.