At the young age of eleven I decided I wanted to be an artist when I grew up. For some reason I never seriously wavered from that path and devoted much of my time to learning and improving my skills. In high school I discovered metalsmithing and was immediately enamored with the material and processes involved. I had always had this sense in my head that it took big, powerful industrial tools to shape metal. When I discovered that with just the power of my arm and a hair thin saw blade I could cut shapes with great precision I was hooked. Shortly thereafter I became enthralled with how the humble hammer could form metal into almost any shape desired.

After an extended 12 year college “career” I finally earned my BFA with an emphasis in metalsmithing from Grand Valley State University. It is at Grand Valley that I discovered the raising process I use to form my vessels from flat sheet, still using that humble hammer and the power of my arm.

In 2003 I finally achieved that goal of my young eleven year old self and was able to sustain full-time career as an artist. It was not an easy dream to achieve, but for me it was worth seeking. I now spend my days at my Michigan home/studio working to bring objects of beauty, light, and inspiration into the world.

Jason Quigno can take a heavy block of hard, rigid stone and turn it into a seemingly weightless series of flowing forms, curling and interlocking with a distinct sense of movement.  While he polishes the surface of certain pieces to a smooth, shiny finish, at times he chooses to expose the stone’s raw texture, or to meticulously etch one side, highlighting the apparent flow of something as unyielding as stone.

With the goal of evoking a sense of peace, Quigno deliberately chooses simple designs and captivates the viewer with a sense of graceful movement. He lets the stone dictate its direction; certain pieces have a natural flow, while others require more manipulation to avoid lines and flaws.

Jason Quigno was inspired at a young age by the work of his uncle, and went on to take a sculpture class taught by Dennie Christy.  He the apprenticed under Daniel Mena, and has since been exhibiting his work across the United States.