Thomas Turner has been a practicing jewelry artist for over 42 years. His award-winning designs and custom pieces have been featured in shows, galleries and private collections throughout the United States.
He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts from Western Michigan University in 1977. Right from graduation to present he has been a self-employed jewelry artist. During his career he has worked in a variety of materials, styles and techniques, creating a lifetime of experience and success. His work has brought joy to many many people over the years. Known for his incredible craftsmanship and wonderful use of the finest materials, his pieces are such that people notice “Oh, that’s a Thomas Turner piece”.
For over 20 years, Thomas was the Jewelry Department Head and Instructor at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
From 1997 – 2000, Thomas was a committee member of the American Craft Council.
Since 2001, he has been on the American Craft Council Board of Trustees.
He has served as an adjunct professor at Western Michigan University, fostering an understanding of working in metals to the next generation.
Lastly, he is now on the Board of Directors for the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, bringing his thoughts and national experience to the Institution that gave him his start.
In January of 2019 Thomas was nominated and elected to serve as a “Life Trustee” for the American Craft Council in honor of his work on behalf of the Council.
