John Loeffler Inspired by the stunning landscapes, lush vegetation, and unique wildlife of New Zealand on a visit in 2003, John Loeffler, a native of the American mid-west, moved to the Bay of Plenty in early 2005 with his wife, a New Zealander by birth. John received his early education in metals from the age of 16, working in a foundry casting and machining bronze, copper, and aluminum.  He also worked with Dominic Labino, a well-known pioneer in the art glass field.  These early experiences set the stage for what has been a long, twisting road as an artist craftsman. John studied Industrial Education at Owens Technical College in Perrysburg, Ohio and at Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio. His course of study has led him into working with plastics, wood, ceramics, iron and other metals. An avid artist, John has continually used these skills to enrich his creations no matter what his medium may be. The relaxed atmosphere, artistic landscapes, and multicultural diversity of New Zealand has inspired John in the creation of his most recent works represented here.