Our Featured Artist this month, Stefan Alexandres, was born in Athens, Greece and is a sculptor and jeweler. He began his career as an apprentice in the metal arts through organized guilds in Greece when he was only 12. Learning the traditional ways of the old world, he specialized in repousse and filigree. In 1974 he opened his first studio and in 1988 he immigrated to America.

Stefan only began to work with titanium a few years ago, but it has been a vital and creative experience for him. He chose titanium because it is hypoallergenic, doesn’t corrode, and is as strong as steel – yet 45% lighter. By anodizing titanium he generates oxidation on the metal surface, bringing out the metal's brilliant colors without the use of patinas, dyes, or chemicals.

Currently Stefan teaches at the Florida Society of Goldsmiths and the Crealde School of Art in Winter Park, Florida. He has exhibited throughout the country and won numerous awards for his repousse work. His recent experiments with titanium jewelry landed him a spot in the prestigious Smithsonian Craft Show and earned him a Niche Award (Finalist).