After 12 years of corporate/government life Dana decided that it was time to break free from the 'cubicle,' even though she finally got a window office, and follow her dream of owning and operating an art studio. “As a child I roamed the aisles of our local art store scouring the shelves for painting kits, colored pencils, drawing books, and anything I could get my hands on to become the artist I always wanted to be. Over the years I dabbled in mosaic tilework, pottery, and painting, but finally found my niche in jewelry design and fabrication. As a self-taught artist I explore and learn on my own which gives me more creative freedom. “ Residing in Atlanta, GA, Dana owns Atlanta Art Worx , a jewelry and metal arts center. Opening its doors in 2003 this cozy studio offers an authentic, working studio experience where students take jewelry/metal arts classes & workshops.  photo credit Stu Haluski Dana Ruth Designs officially launched early 2006 to showcase my original hand crafted designs. I feel that jewelry can make such a personal statement, reflecting its owner's many facets as an outlet for self-expression for both the creator and the wearer. The natural roughness of my design and execution highlights the hand-crafted element of each piece.