Markusen

Markusen

Markusen, State University of New York at Brockport Professor of Art Emeritus, has been a metalsmith,
designer, and educator for more than 35 years. He is known throughout the country for his distinctive
designs in copper and bronze and has been recognized with numerous awards, grants and honors for his
contributions to the fine craft field. Mr. Markusen has been commissioned to create work for both the
private and public sectors. His work is found in many collections including the White House Collection of
American Crafts, the Vatican Museum, the American Craft Museum, NYC, and the Wustum Museum of
Fine Arts, Racine, WI.

Noted for his distinctly American, handmade holloware, Markusen has established himself by using
copper sheet and seamless copper tubing in his work. Each piece of holloware is individually heated red
hot, then quickly shaped and formed using hammers and mandrels without the use of dies. The design is
refined, work hardened, and then the finish copper is polished, oxidized or plated. The copper is either
heat treated to a precise temperature that creates the iridescent oxidized patina or chemically treated to
produce a multi-colored patina. These finishes are protected with an acrylic coat or paste wax. The
copper also may be commercially electroplated with nickel. These unique techniques have been
researched, developed, and refined over the past 30 years in his studio. As a result, contemporary
holloware of the finest craftsmanship and highest aesthetic consideration is available for fine craft
collectors. His work includes candleholders, bowls, vases, wall tondi (plates), murals, and furniture. A
series of limited editions combines holloware with cast bronze. This exciting design series enhances all
personal living styles.

Read about Markusen in
American Style October 2007
Phoenix Home & Garden December 2007