Updated:  3/01/08

JON MICHAEL ROUTE  ARTIST - METALSMITH   

  On these pages you will find images of my metalwork or "metalsmithing".  Some are functional, some purely decorative, but all designed and executed by my very own hand.  I incorporate several alloys and types of metal, including my favoarite material, pewter.  It is silver-grey in color, functional, very soft, and has a warmth not found in other metals.

   My newest works are flat-panel metal wall pieces and 3-D sculptural wall pieces.  They make use of richly colored heat induced patinas and textures, on pewter, copper, brass and bronze.  Combining several metals allows for a playful interchange of colors, textures and compositions.  Check out "Wall Pieces" above.

    Create your summer!        

Take a break and take a workshop.   " Pewter Boxes and the Textural Element".   July 21-23 in Wisconsin's magnificent Door County.  Using hand tools and the hydraulic press, we will be taking advantage of pewter's softness and focus on how to add visual interest and strength through use of texture and pattern.  Take home a box you made with a very simple hinge.  Metalworking experience helpful but not necessary. 

Go to:  www.peninsulaartschool.com     

  At Home in Wisconsin

 "It is important to me, that as I explore myself through this rich and fascinating tradition of metalsmithing, that I strike a balance between art for art's sake and preserving the time-honored techniques and craftsmanship that first attracted me to this field."