Robert Lee Morris

Robert Lee Morris is an American jewelry designer and artist known for his innovative and influential contributions to the field of contemporary jewelry. Born on October 25, 1947, in New York City, Morris developed a passion for art and design at a young age.

Morris studied at the Philadelphia College of Art (now the University of the Arts) and later attended the School for American Craftsmen at the Rochester Institute of Technology. During his time in Rochester, he became inspired by the work of modernist sculptors such as Alexander Calder and Louise Nevelson, who would later influence his own artistic style.

In the early 1970s, Morris moved back to New York City and began creating jewelry that challenged traditional notions of adornment. His designs were characterized by their bold, sculptural forms and use of unconventional materials such as brass, silver, and semiprecious stones. Morris drew inspiration from a variety of sources, including tribal and ancient jewelry, as well as modernist and postmodernist art movements.

Morris gained recognition for his unique approach to jewelry design and quickly became a prominent figure in the art and fashion worlds. His work was featured in prestigious galleries and museums, including the Museum of Modern Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

Throughout his career, Morris collaborated with renowned fashion designers, such as Calvin Klein and Donna Karan, to create jewelry that complemented their clothing collections. His collaborations with these designers helped to elevate the status of jewelry as an integral part of the fashion industry.

In addition to his work as a jewelry designer, Morris has also ventured into other artistic mediums, including sculpture and furniture design. His sculptural works often explore themes of nature, spirituality, and the human form, while his furniture designs combine functionality with artistic expression.

Robert Lee Morris continues to be an influential figure in the world of jewelry and design. His innovative approach to jewelry making has inspired countless artists and designers, and his work remains highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. With his distinctive style and unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional jewelry design, Morris has left an indelible mark on the field of decorative arts.