Richard Elaver

Richard Elaver is a designer and metalsmith working in the overlapping spheres of art, design and technology. In his work, Elaver integrates the tools of industrial design with the craft of metalsmithing. He develops computer simulations of biological phenomena, and uses them to create design objects. In 2006, he completed a Fulbright Fellowship in the Netherlands where he worked with Droog Design and studied the history of design at the University of Leiden. Following several years of work experience both as a jeweler and industrial designer, he now teaches in Appalachian State University’s Department of Applied Design.

Elaver’s porfolio includes jewelry, eyewear, children’s toys, writing instruments and other product designs. His work has been exhibited nationally and internationally, including exhibitions at The National Ornamental Metal Museum, New York Hall of Science and the Tampa Museum of Science and Industry. He is also named on more than 15 design patents and has helped develop products for companies such as Wilson Sports, 3M and Craftsman.

On campus, Elaver is co-director of Appalachian’s AppLab and Innovation and Design Cooperative (IDC), a problem-based learning model where interdisciplinary teams of faculty and students work with community and industry partners to solve real-world problems through design thinking.

Areas of expertise

• Design Thinking
• Industrial design
• Digital fabrication
• Metalsmithing
• Design for disabilities