In 1988, Steve Ford and David Forlano began collaborating on jewelry design under the name City Zen Cane. Working with the new material, polymer clay, their early production work was characterized by bright colors and complex caned cross sectional patterns. Ford and Forlano were early innovators in what is now a popular craft material. They taught workshops nationally, self-published two calendars of polymer clay work, and Ford co-authored a how-to book for Lark Books.

Today, Ford and Forlano primarily make one of a kind pieces under their own names. With the introduction of precious materials such as sterling silver, gold and pearls, their work is the boldest and most expressive to date. The forms and surfaces resemble organic structures such as those found washed up on a beach. They have complex, layered surface treatments and the colors are mysterious and unusual. Ford and Forlano strive to give each element in a piece it’s own diverse character while still making it look unified and whole.