Frank E. Cummings III lives in Southern California where he has been working as an artist, designer, university professor and Associate Dean of the School of Arts at California State University in Fullerton. He has taught and lectured throughout the United States and in several countries in Africa.
It is as an artist that Frank is most renowned, having exhibited from California to New York as well as internationally, including the National Museum of American History in Washington D.C. which is one of the Smithsonian Institutions. In 1993 one of Frank's pieces was selected by First Lady Barbara Bush for inclusion in the prestigous White House Collection.
His elegantly designed vessels and containers have been widely published. At least eight books showcase his work, including National Geographic's The Craftsman in America.
The work created by Frank Cummings exemplifies the soul and eye of the artist. Drawing as he does from a myriad of sources makes it difficult to categorize his creations. It is this variety, however, which contributes to the vibrancy of his work. The rich colors and lusters of the natural woods, the gem stones and gold are amazingly blended into magnificent forms.
Frank's careful attention to creativity and design brings visual literacy to his forms. The objects he creates become vehicles for his ideas, emotions and his passion. He views his work as an opportunity to contribute to the spiritual and emotional well-being of the human condition. As a creative individual, Frank views this opportunity as an obligation.
His work always is beyond utilitarian function. The natural effects and wonders of the media do not dictate what he can or can not do. The artist releases the natural elements of line, color and texture of the material to give expression and form to the idea as it takes on a new reality and new life.