Douglas Crane

In the late 70's, Doug Crane found a creative home at Montclair College. A short ride into SoHo for the gallery opening of one of his teachers became a regular occurrence. After graduating in 1981 with a degree in photography and metalworking, Doug embarked on a commercial photographic career that eventually brought him to southwest Ohio.

Doug then decided to build a small jewelry studio in his home, where began to design works in silver and gold. He expanded on the styles he developed while at Montclair. This work eventually led to a small business of selling jewelry at regional arts festivals, where he was honored with awards for the style and quality of his work.

After ten years of shows, Doug developed a new idea. He wanted to create something that was a departure from the work he had done in the past, and to sell through galleries around the country in a way that he couldn t with his jewelry.

After seeing a plain wooden hourglass in 1998, he decided to apply his metalworking skills and creativity to produce distinctive timepieces. After experimenting with a variety of methods, he discovered how to cast the spindles for the hourglass in pewter. He also learned the necessary woodworking skills to produce the wooden bases for the timers.

The results of his efforts are the Crane & Company Sandtimer. Since 1999, Doug has produced his hourglasses in his one-man studio. The diverse and distinctive spingle designs reflect the inspirations he takes from his life's experiences. Doug plans to change the spindle designs as his life changes, so that his art evolves and grows along with him.

www.merchantsoftime.com

Springboro, OH

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