John Paul Miller (b.1918)

An article in the January 2003 issue of American craft magazine explains why the work of this artist are so highly admired. His rediscovery of granulation, the ancient Etruscan technique of fusing metal without the use of solder has been at the core of his invention. He is perhaps best known for his unique renditions of sea creatures such as this one. His series of creatures are elegant and playful even if they are, in a natural state, unattractive. His other series, Fragments, and Black and Gold emanate from landscapes and organic shapes and are compositions from his wide visual resource, some reflecting his interests in music and travel. Miller's immersion in the rich cultural opportunities such as viewing the collection at the Cleveland Museum of Art and hearing the Cleveland Orchestra, and working with his mentors such as Kenneth Bates have sharpened the sensibilities and skills that propel his design and his aesthetic. One can see Miller's declared affinities for the work of Charles Burchfield; both respond to landscapes and to music. Miller's work has been included in many solo exhibitions including The Art Institute of Chicago, and in many group exhibitions in this country and abroad including the Vatican Museum in Italy and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London . Miller received the 1994 American Craft Council gold medal award for artistic excellence.