About: Artist John Kuenneth

University of Denver, Denver, CO

John Kuenneth graduated from the University of Denver with an academic minor in fine arts. He was later ordained an Episcopal priest, but continued to express his artistic talent through liturgical art and design. In 1995, Kuenneth retired from the ministry to further pursue his interest in beads and design. His unique necklaces and earrings are created with a variety of beads and artifacts, including gemstones, organic material and precious metals. While exploring the fusion of aesthetics and cultures, Kuenneth combines material from different sources to create jewelry that link's its wearers to other ages, places and cultures.

"Beads keep their secrets well. Often we know little about who created them, or their original purpose, time of place of origin. Still, they are arresting in their mystery, beauty and power. Their very presence can move us deeply, touching our own memories and histories, evoking profound inner responses and revelations."

"My art is one of assemblage in which beads and artifacts are my medium of choice. I frequently combine materials from different sources, so that my work is an exploration of fusion: fusion of esthetics and cultures, fusion across time and space."

"I like working with materials that link us to other ages, places and cultures where our common story has been played out under constantly varying circumstances. I hope my work conveys something of the mystery and continuity of human experience embodied in beautiful, enduring objects to evoke delight and, in time, to pass again into a future we cannot know."

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