A time-honored tradition,
reinvigorated for the 21st century.

 

Since the invention of clavichords, harpsichords, organs and pianos, generations of artists have embellished these musical instruments with their signature visual stylings. Fine art case keyboard instruments are found, to this day, in distinguished art collections across the globe. In earlier eras, each art case was a unique and individualized piece of craftsmanship, often housed in prominent halls.

​

Throughout the centuries, art case pianos reflected the aesthetic styles of the time period in which they were created. Generally, as mass production was introduced to piano building, art case pianos were still created but their numbers dwindled, and styles were streamlined to fit the taste of period trends.

​

Whereas in earlier eras, most keyboard instruments were decorated to some degree (often lavishly), following the inception of mass production, art-cases became increasingly rare.

​

At present, art-case pianos are not as widely produced as they once were. Most pianos we see have wood finish or single solid color. Relatively few artists are producing new art-case pianos. As an artist and pianist, I am happy to be a part of the continuation of an age-old art tradition.

​

In the spring of 2009, I created my first art case piano, the central element of my senior thesis at Ringling College of Art + Design in Sarasota Florida. Using mixed media and 18kt gold leaf, I created a new surface for an early 20th century American Beckwith baby grand piano, that had long languished, unused in a storage area. Through creating an art case for the instrument, the piano was given a new identity.

​

This art case piano is the first created in the institutional history of Ringling College, founded in 1931. Unlike any other piano, it is currently displayed on campus at Ringling College, on loan to the Selby Gallery.

​

In the gallery section of this website, there are many photos highlighting the art case piano, as well as other examples of my artwork and design.

​

My mission is to create new and extraordinary art case pianos, which are unlike any seen before. In addition to pianos, I also seek to make innovative cases for other instruments such as:

​

Synthesizers

Harpsichords

Clavichords

Organs

Guitars

​

I am currently accepting new commissions for art case instruments. Whether you are a musician, art collector or musical instrument enthusiast, contact me and I will create a one-of-a-kind work of art for you that will last for generations.

​

Each new piano will be as unique as its collector. If you have a particular vision in mind for the look and style of the art on the instrument, I can work with you to achieve the desired result. I work in many styles from abstract to photo-realistic, classical to modern, and everything in between. The style of piano art is limited only by the farthest reaches of the imagination.

​

Contact me today! I would love to hear your ideas. I am ready to create the instrument you have been dreaming about!