Dee Fontans

Event co-host, JewelLer

Creativity is the driving force in Dee Fontans life. She is a skilled artisan specializing in metalwork, crafting both limited edition and one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces. 

Fontans began her artistic education at Parsons School of Design in New York City, where she immersed herself in life and fashion drawing. Her creative journey took a transformative turn when she discovered a passion for metal and jewellery making. Graduating, from the State University of New York in New Paltz with a degree in Gold and Silversmithing, Dee returned to New York City, ready to pursue her career in the arts. Like many artists, Dee adeptly juggled multiple roles, freelancing as a Gallerists, life drawing model, jeweller, and support staff at the arts program at the 92nd Street Y and the American Crafts Museum.

In 1988 Fontans immigrated to Canada to marry jeweller Charles Lewton-Brain. Settling in Calgary they co-owned the Lewton-Brain/ Fontans Centre for Jewellery Studies and Brain Press Publishing. 

Dee is driven to support and develop culture in her community. With a tenure of 25 years as a faculty member at the Alberta University of the Arts (formerly The Alberta College of Art & Design), Dee has profoundly impacted aspiring artists, guiding them in the realms of jewellery, wearable art, and performance art. In 2012, she served as a Cultural Ambassador during Calgary's designation as the Cultural Capital of Canada, fostering connections between the local government, the artistic community, and Team Calgary.

In 2016 choosing to redirect her energy she retired from teaching and relocated to Nanaimo BC. Living downtown Dee is always walking around, keeping connected in the neighbourhood. She writes about her favourite independent businesses and local art happenings in the Nanaimo Magazine. She has shared her expertise with local creatives volunteering backstage at the Port Theatre, OV Arts Centre, and for fashion events around town. Dee will continue her art adventure as co-host of exhibitions at the Vancouver Island Sculpting Studio.

Finding joy and fulfillment in her studio at the bench, Dee embodies the spirit of an artist, with treasure in her heart, metal in her genes, and silver weaving its way into her hair.