Curtis Arima

Curtis Hidemasa Nickerson Arima is Professor and Chair of Ceramics, Jewelry and Metal Arts, Sculpture, Textiles, and Individualized Studies Programs at California College of the Arts. His work transforms inherited/found materials into objects honoring sustainability, cultural heritage, and personal narrative, drawing from his Japanese-American and LGBTQ+ identity.

Research focuses on craft innovation, sustainable practices, and cultural narratives. His exhibitions include Metal Museum, Fuller Craft Museum, New York Jewelry Week, Houston Center for Contemporary Craft, and international venues like Ruthin Craft Centre. Collections include Metal Museum and Kamm Teapot Foundation.

Teaching engagements span YBCA, SNAG Conference, Indiana University, Haystack Mountain School of Craft, Musashino Art University (Tokyo), and Shenzhen Polytechnic. He serves on Ethical Metalsmiths' Board advocating responsible jewelry practices.