Philosophers often say that we are guided by fate, that our destinies are sealed from the moment we are born. If that is true, then Ed Levin was graced by fate with an eye for beauty, and the skilled hands of a master craftsman. After graduating from Columbia College in New York, with a degree in Fine Arts, he was afforded the opportunity to apprentice at a studio in Argentina, under the guidance of a Renaissance style jewelry maker. There he learned to create objects from gold and silver that were more than just pieces of jewelry to adorn a pretty woman's hand. He discovered a new world of innovation and self-expression. Every step in the process was done by hand, from processing the metals, to stretching it into wire, to polishing it into a miniature work of art. At the time, Ed considered himself a painter, but his jewelry creations quickly showed that working with metals was his true gift. He has honed that gift over the years, and created designs that are stunningly original. His designs look deceptively simple at first glance, but closer examination reveals unique touches that turn them from "just jewelry" into true works of art. They are meant to be enjoyed, to be worn, to be handed down from one generation to the next. Mr. Levin's artistry doesn't stop with jewelry making; he also paints, sculpts and collects art objects from around the world. Each piece has a story to tell, and he is as creative in his story telling as he is with his other forms of artistic expression. Ed Levin jewelry is sold in shops and upscale boutiques all around the country. What was once a one-man operation has now expanded into The Ed Levin Group, a business employing over thirty talented people. Located in a turn of the century building in upstate New York, it continues to push the envelope of creative design to the limit, and to produce heirloom pieces of exquisite beauty and charm. If you would like to see more examples of Ed Levin's work, you can log onto his web site at: www.edlevinjewlery.com or stop in the Suwannee Triangle Gallery on Dock Street in Cedar Key. | 
