Metalsmiths Unite! (the blog): jewelry

Showing posts with label jewelry. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Update: the Art of personal Adornment with Kathleen Krucoff

In this post we are re-visiting one of our previously interviewed Metalsmiths Unite! members, Kathleen Krucoff. Enjoy!

To see her original interview please click here.

Namaste
© Kathleen Krucoff

When asked about her current inspirations Metalsmiths Unite member Kathleen Krucoff responds:

"My goal is to create something you won't find anywhere else. It has to be as individual as the person who will ultimately wear it. I've recently changed my tag line on my website to support the feeling that I have about my work "The Art of Personal Adornment". With each piece, I make it as if I was making it for me. If I like it, I know it will 'speak' to its rightful owner. I want to make true art jewelry.

Nature is my biggest inspiration. The design possibilities it offers is infinite. My dad did a lot of landscape work and would take me along with him on the various jobs he did in the evening. I was fascinated by the way he would sculpt evergreens and manicure the grounds of the various homes in the city where we lived. As I became immersed in metalwork, I realized that he was a true landscape artist. I know his love of nature has influenced me.

Music is a key component in my work too. It really depends on my mood when I'm in the studio. If I need to focus, classical is a must - Mozart, Chopin, Beethoven, Hayden. Other times it just varies Jazz, Rock & Roll, New Age, even Electronic Synthpop like Daft Punk...go figure! Music keeps me moving with work and design ideas."

Sky Tree

How long have you been involved in this type of making? (how did you start?)

I've been working with metal for a little over 4 years now, started with wire wrapping the glass cabochons I made. Then, I really became immersed in metalsmithing a little over 2 years ago when I took my first metalsmithing weekend workshop from Lexi Erickson. She said she would help me take my work to a whole new level and she did. I was hooked, I think because being a metalsmith is intellectually stimulating for me. You have to plan out the fabrication process. I like feeling "the wheels turn in my mind" as I work through a piece.

Climb Every Mountain

Where are you located?

I live in city of Black Forest, Colorado just northeast of Colorado Springs. It's considered to be part of the front range of the Rocky Mountains. I love seeing the mountains every day, when the weather cooperates. It still amuses me that you can see snow on Pikes Peak even in the summer months! Of course, I've incorporated mountain shapes in my works too and this year created a new line, “Mountainesque.” My husband & I share our home with three basset hounds on almost 7 acres. Since we live in the less tree-d area of the Black Forest, I love the open space that surrounds us and provides a great view of those beautiful Rocky Mountains.

Safe Passage

Advice for newcomers that you would like to share?

Practice every day. Whether it's drawing designs, cutting out some metal, soldering, just get in your studio/workspace and work with your craft every day. Practice, practice, practice. That's invaluable.

Where do you envision your work going in the next year? (artistic direction)

I see more clean and simple metal works. A real focus, emphasis on the metal, incorporating brass and maybe bronze, along with the copper & sterling silver I use right now. Pure shapes and textures. Course, that is what I think today, it seems like my thoughts ebb and flow, so things could go in a completely different direction than I expect.

With a home studio, I am never without the companionship of one of our three basset hounds. I love that. When I need a break, it's great to stroke a pet that is a true studio mascot. And I'm a firm believer in frequent breaks. Otherwise your body and mind will become too tired and you can and will start making mistakes or risk an injury. Be good to yourself.

I'm a swimmer and cyclist; along with doing yoga. I need that feeling of zen after a workout. I get some of my best designs when I'm working out. You never know when your next design idea will pop into your head.

Mountain Valley

Kathleen's Links-

website http://kathleenkrucoff.com

blog: http://mysticalmythicalmetalwork.wordpress.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/KathleenKrucoff

Facebook Fan Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kathleen-Krucoff/180271320724?ref=nf

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Andes Cruz ~ Artist Interview

Today's Blog is an artist interview with Metalsmiths Unite! member Andes Cruz - Enjoy!

How would you describe what you do as an artist?

I am a Metalsmith. I specifically say Metalsmith, not “jeweler”, or “silversmith”.... I don’t want to be confined, and I want to work with everything.

What inspires your designs?

My designs come from Whatever inspires me in the moment. I don’t <yet> have a “defined” signature style, that is Ever Present in my work. My designs continue to change and grow all the time - influenced by what it going on in my life at the time.... Though, there is a mix with underlying themes that have been present in my creative process for many years.

It might be a feeling from a movie; a feeling present in my life, or a walk in the forest, a beautiful day skiing, reading an article, looking thru a book, or something as simple- and more likely - as just seeing what I have in front of me <stones> and letting them tell me what they want to become. My work flows from within. A lot of the time, I may have no idea (specifically), what I want to create. So I pull out the stone box, rifling thru it until I find the ones speaking to me… and then allow what they may be to speak - rings, pendants, combinations I want to put together... I build work up from there~ as it allows me to create in a spontaneous way. I find, most of the work I am most pleased with is created in this way of allowing it to happen. Instead of confining it to a fixed idea or outcome. I just let it flow. Some days I know I want to make “rings”. (I love making rings the most, incidentally) And so I start with the idea “rings”. and go from there.

How long have you been involved in this type of making?

I took my first Jewelry courses in the summer of 1994 in New Mexico, taking art classes at the Taos Institute of Art. Though I also took photography, and pottery; the metalsmithing courses immediately had me hook line and sinker. I have been hooked and creating ever since.

Since that summer, I have continued to learn and grow as an craftsperson, and have spent as much time as I can creating with metal.

I have had the opportunity over the years to spend bits of time working under and with several very talented Master Silversmiths and Goldsmiths; and have completed the “Bench Technician” Course at Revere Academy.

Where are you located?

Currently I live in Southern BC, Canada; in a small Mountain community called Rossland. I have been resident to this area for about 5 years now. The community is nestled in the high mountains, with access to skiing, backcountry skiing, mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, fresh air and endless forest. It is located 7 miles north of the USA boarder, north Spokane, Washington. It’s quiet, remote, and unpopulated. A bit of a desert from the Arts community, but the internet keeps me in constant communication with metalsmithing peers worldwide.

Do you have a website or etsy store?

Yes - of course :)

Andes Cruz Designs Website: http://www.andescruzdesigns.com 
Etsy Shop: http://www.andescruz.etsy.com
 Etsy Surplus shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/AndesCruzSurplus

What other ways do you market your work?

I do at times show in galleries; but currently only show & sell my work online. I am open to the right locations. However, I have found the internet to be a fabulous gallery lately, with it’s worldwide audience.

Do you teach?

I do not currently teach (I have been an assistant in the past) Though, it is definitely in my future plans.

Any sage advice for newcomers that you would like to share?

Technique technique technique. Work on honing, improving, and expanding your skills ALL the time. With a quiver of good solid skills you can create anything.

You can do a lot , with only a few tools. It may take longer, but it’s possible, so don’t be discouraged by not having a studio with everything in it. Be creative. There are great books - Like “Cheap Thrills in The Tool Shop”, by Charles Lewton-Brain.

There are two points here I really want to stress - One is not “copying”; the second is that with all the Metalsmiths there are today; having an excellent skill set will set you apart from the crowd.

When you’re beginning really, truly focus on finding “Your Voice”. That which makes you unique. Your creative edge. The thing that makes the work Yours. It’s easy to look thru books and online pages to draw inspiration, and with it comes the strong desire to replicate what you see.... but please don’t. It’s very important to respect these designs as the Original Artist’s work. Instead, choose to filter what inspires you thru your very own creative lenses, let it flow thru your hand, and become uniquely yours.

Finding your unique Voice will set you apart. Trust that, when you create what really is within you, it creates a special Alchemy within your works, and shines out to your audience. You will set yourself apart in the sea of many; and trust that this is a very good thing. There will be people who will Love your work; specifically because it is unique, and different, and is a true piece of art within itself. It carries your essence in it. I feel; if you are uninspired in your creations, people will intristically feel this. So work to find your place of inspiration, and make your creations Your Own. Find your Voice. And do it with the best skills you can execute, always. Don’t cut corners, or skimp on supplies. Take your time, do it right. Always.

Where do you envision your work going in the next year?

I see new collaborations with my partner; Master Silversmith Rick Montano; more inclusion of colours (in new ways aside from stones); new designs and styles; even expanding materials and new techniques....Lots of new directions! We will see, but I think it is going to be very exciting.

Anything else you would like to share?

I like to go play outside and stay active, as I am sure you guessed. It’s no accident I live where I do..… And, I do it all!

I currently work full time doing Computer Aided Design and Drafting. I do Website design in a small scale way.  I’m learning to play banjo, and fiddle.  I like to do photography stuff.  I’m always learning new skills in the workshop. I enjoy blogging and Writing. Hangin’ with my Felines.  I like to garden too, but sadly, I live in an apartment right now.

Disclaimer* I co-administer the blog for Metalsmith’s Unite, where you are reading this. (June 2011)

How you can find Andes Cruz online:

Andes Cruz Designs Website: http://www.andescruzdesigns.com

Montano Jewelry Website:  http://montanojewelry.com

Etsy Shop: http://www.andescruz.etsy.com 

Etsy Surplus shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/AndesCruzSurplus

Blog: http://andescruz.wordpress.com/ 

Twitter: http://twitter.com/AndesCruzDesign

Flickr Foto: http://www.flickr.com/photos/andescruz/ 

Andes Cruz Designs FB Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/AndesCruzDesigns 

Momentile foto: http://momentile.com/andescruz 

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/andescruz 

Pawtracks Blog (about my felines): http://365felines.wordpress.com

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Metalsmiths Unite! in Tucson!

Whew! February in Tucson is an exciting and busy time- we are now in our second week of Gem show frenzy- Lots of cars on the roads from out of state, no parking downtown...and our favorite eateries? Booked solid! :-) We love it though- because in exchange, Tucson gets to host 40+ of the most wonderful gem shows you ever have opened your wallet for!

Last week was the most active week for me- The Agta show is in the Convention center, all the tents are up at Holidome and Tep. That first official week of the shows (not including the "pre-show" shows the weekend before) that first week is chock full of activities- many seminars to choose from (most are free!) and of course, party after party after opening to attend.

This year, I hosted a small gathering at my studio for members of Metalsmiths Unite who were in town for the shows- Luckily, the weather was in our favor and we had a cool, dry evening to enjoy a bit of outdoors and a warm bonfire (I even toasted a couple of marshmalows....then gave up when I found that I needed a longer stick- ouch!)

I was happy to see some of my Tucson metalsmithing friends come to the event- The crew from Krikawa Jewelry Designs, Shawna Lobmiller from Starr Gems, Danielle Embry, Mark Ramsaur from Tucson Parks and Rec and the Metallink program, Dave Arens (chain maker and inventer of the original jump ring tool) Kevin Potter a jeweler/machinist (who made my hydraulic press and dies) and Jude Clark, a wonderful local jeweler and friend. My dear friend (an admitted non-creative person) Gina Reyes was there too, along with Guido and my super kiddo, Cosmo (who proceeded to entertain us by dragging out his drums..(I think he really wanted a big drum circle...I worry that he might be a bit of a hippy! lol)

Cosmo and Wendy Van Camp get their Drumming groove on

Then there were some out of towners...Andrea Robinson buzzed up on her motercycle from Sierra Vista, The amazing Gem and Jewelry trade Blogqueen Robyn Hawk came , as well as Whaley studios Teri Masters, Wendy Van Camp, Shari Seager and Karen Pfeiffer of "Hammered and Stoned" ...and later on we had Polly Mary Amalia Spencer and Thea Demitre (both who drove here...DROVE HERE from MAINE!) stop by to soak in a few moments of campfire.

My idea of using Skype proved to be a bit too problematic to pull off- We were able to chat a bit with Julie Sanford and even Erkki Kokko(though the feed from Finland was very choppy) I think I'll be trying to figure out a way to use skype for metalsmiths Unite - I think it needs to be a Skype event on it's own....but that's a subject for future deliberation.

OK- to those who could not make it to the meet up- sorry, I know how hard it is to juggle all the demands of the Gem show- I hope that you can find more time next year to come to this fun and relaxing gathering- And I hope that you had a good time at the show- made lots of contacts and found gems and tools galore!

I'm now setting my sights on the next fun February event- The Yuma Symposium! I'll be going there in a few weeks with a couple of my friends- it's going to be my 4th time attending the event, and I anticipate a Hugely entertaining and creative weekend- (I'll be blogging about it for sure!)

Have a great week everyone- remember to post your events on the Metalsmiths Unite! wall- let us know what you are up to- Have fun in your studios! be safe-
Metalsmiths, Unite!
ciao- Maureen

Monday, January 18, 2010

Jill Livengood

In the continuation of our member interviews, today we are meeting Jill Livengood....

"Ring of Fire" bracelet by Jill Livengood

How would you describe what you do as an artist?
I make jewelry combining chainmaille, metalsmithing, semi-precious stones, and whatever else catches my fancy.

how long have you been involved in this type of making? (how did you start?)
I've been making chainmaille for two years. That led me to wire wrapping, which led me to fused chains, which led to metalsmithing. Cuz once you melt metal with fire, there's no going back. :)

where are you located?
I live in Fuquay-Varina, NC - about 20 minutes south of Raleigh (the capital) in roughly the middle of the state.

do you have a website or etsy/artfire/1000market etc store? (list url here)
yep - www.livngoodjewelry.com

what other ways do you market your work?(shows, galleries, stores)
i'm on etsy, artfire, 1km - I also do local handmade/artisan/indie craft markets. One local store carries a few of my pieces, but I hope to get in more this year.

do you teach? if so, where- I teach a monthly chainmaille class for the Raleigh Jewelry Makers Meet Up group: http://www.meetup.com/raleighjewelry/

any advice for newcomers that you would like to share?
Don't be afraid to screw up - you can always send it to a refiner. Play with copper first if you're worried about messing up expensive silver.

where do you envision your work going in the next year? (artistic or business direction)
I hope to bring in more metalsmithing to my work. I have a studio set up now where before it was my kitchen table & sofa.

anything else you would like to share? (favorite techniques? any good jokes? you can even put your flickr/twitter/blog links here too)
My hubby is also a metal artist, but he makes sculptures. http://www.artfire.com/users/metalartbymac

Thanks Jill!

New Flickr pool!

Another one of those things on the "Why haven't I done this before?!" list...
Metalsmiths Unite now has a Flickr Group for photosharing.

I will be keeping it a closed group for members of Metalsmiths Unite only-
(so please put your name in the group entry request.)

I've set the limit of images at 4 per week- and we'll see how that goes...
if the group page needs adjustments it will happen- but for now I just want to keep it simple
In the future I can envision events like "self portrait day" or "messy bench contest"...for now, let's just free form and put up some pics! (they need not always be metal either- if it is an image that inspires you go right ahead and post that too)

here is the link-
http://www.flickr.com/groups/1311938@N20/

Have fun- please remember to put your name on the membership request!
thanks- Maureen

Monday, January 4, 2010

Skye Milliken

Today's interview is with Skye Milliken, who is beginning to develop her body of work- Having diverse levels of experience in Metalsmiths Unite! is what makes it a dynamic community-

It's great to see how we develop as artists and the enthusiasm that we have for our craft- at all levels of making- from beginning to almost retirement, I can see the passion for this craft emanating from the responses to these questions!

Name: Skye Milliken
How would you describe what you do as an artist? I have fun! Creating something out of nothing is so liberating. Dedicating time for creativity always makes me feel more grounded.

what inspires your designs? Everything. Because I am new to this, sometimes I am just trying to hone my skills. I become more inspired by every project that I see through to the end.

how long have you been involved in this type of making? (how did you start?) I started metalsmithing last year after taking an introductory course in college. I loved it so much that I made it my major! I have just recently completed the program and continue to work on projects during studio time.

where are you located? Lakewood, CO

any advice for newcomers that you would like to share? Try to grasp the basics first. If you start with complex designs, you may become discouraged.

where do you envision your work going in the next year? I am excited to get a workshop together and start creating a body of work. Having been so excited to share my stuff with friends, I tend to give pieces away faster than I can make them

Thank you for sharing Skye! we look forward to seeing your workshop develop!

Metalsmiths , Unite! (ps, my favorite science teacher in High School was named Elenor Milliken- she was awesome, won teacher of the year -nationally- in '84) good memories :-)

- MBZ

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

James Miller- London Goldsmith extraordinaire

Today I have the pleasure of posting this interview with James Miller- He is a master of piercing and hand craftsmanship- Museum quality craftsmanship ! The images of his work speak for themselves.

James Miller FIPG ( Fellow of the Institute of Professional Goldsmiths).

How would you describe what you do as an artist?
I am a traditionally trained bench working goldsmith, I served an official Goldsmith's Hall, indentured apprenticeship at a major London Goldsmiths and Silversmiths company in London, England. The term of my probationary period and apprenticeship lasted nearly six years and finished on my 21st birthday.

what inspires your designs?
The style of Karl Faberge and the Art nouveau period.

how long have you been involved in this type of making?
Including my apprenticeship a total of 48 years.

where are you located?
London, England.

do you have a website ?
No website, my work has mainly been sold through Asprey, Garrard and Kutchinsky, both in London and New York.

what other ways do you market your work?
Most of my work has been commissions from designs, by myself and others.

do you teach? if so, where-
I do not teach, in the UK teachers need qualifications from a recognised college. I have never attended a college as I learned my trade from the workshop.

any advice for newcomers that you would like to share?
Learn and perfect the basics such as engraving, saw piercing, filing and hammering. All else will follow naturally.

where do you envision your work going in the next year? (artistic or business direction)
I am close to retirement at the age of 63. I have compiled a book of my unique items of manufacture, which has now been published and available worldwide on Amazon. It is titled "The Work of a Master Goldsmith;A Unique Collection" .

anything else you would like to share? (favorite techniques? any good jokes? you can even put your flickr/twitter/blog links here too)
I enjoy sharing any information that may be useful to learners in my trade, mainly on the Ganoksin Orchid forum.

Thanks Jim for contributing your interview- It's great to be able to get to know you and your work through Metalsmiths Unite!, Ganoksin and Facebook

ciao-Maureen BZ

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Harriete Estel Berman -

Hi everyone-

today I'd like to publish the interview with Harriete Estel Berman- She is an inspiration to me personally with her incredible craftsmanship and design aesthetic as well as her amazing commitment and generosity in teaching the business of our craft- Anyone interested in upping their business skills would do themselves a favor by enrolling in what I call"the Berman school"- Harriete's Blog on business practices for craftspeople "ask Harriete"

here is her interview- enjoy!

Harriete Estel Berman

How would you describe what you do as an artist?
ANSWER: I construct everything from jewelry to large sculpture with recycled materials. And all of my work includes social commentary about our material culture and consumer society.

what inspires your designs? ANSWER: I am inspired by the recycled materials and the thought-provoking commentary on advertising and social issues. This is a study and examination of our material culture.

how long have you been involved in this type of making? (how did you start?)
ANSWER: I’ve been making exhibition quality work since 1980. I started with an undergraduate degree in metals in 1974 from Syracuse University and received a graduate degree from Tyler School of Art in 1980.

where are you located?ANSWER: I live in San Mateo, California near San Francisco, but originally I was from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

do you have a website or etsy/artfire/1000market etc store? (list url here)
ANSWER:
MY WEBSITE: http://www.harriete-estel-berman.info/home.html
Etsy http://www.harrieteestelberman.etsy.com

what other ways do you market your work?(shows, galleries, stores)
ANSWER: In addition to the shows and exhibitions that include my work, I also participate on Crafthaus and other social networking sites. I love all the opportunities presented on line such as with Facebook,and Flickr to reach out to a new audience.

This is all in addition to the work on the Professional Guidelines, [ http://www.harriete-estel-berman.info/profguidelines/profguide.html ]
a column that I write for the local Metal Arts Guild, my blog (ASK Harriete), [http://www.askharriete.typepad.com] and the Professional Development Seminar at the SNAG Conferences.

do you teach? if so, where- ANSWER: Occasionally I lecture and give workshops on professional development for artists and craftspeople. The only teaching that I do is as an Artist Mentor one on one.

My blog, ASK Harriete, offers free professional and business advice to the Arts and Crafts community. Check it out at: http://www.askharriete.typepad.com

any advice for newcomers that you would like to share?
ANSWER: Be prepared, work hard, share with your community (e.g. “pay it forward”) and make the work that is at your core…not what you think people will buy.

where do you envision your work going in the next year? (artistic or business direction)
ANSWER: I am completing the California Collection [ http://www.harriete-estel-berman.info/jewelry/imagesNEW/ca.html] which I have been working on for two years.
Also I plan to finish a ton of other half-completed projects….which might take about six months. Your readers will see all my new work as I publish it on my web site, Facebook, Crafthaus and Flickr. Then I am diving deep into an entirely NEW gigantic project for a major Judaica piece.

anything else you would like to share? ANSWER: Stay tuned for publicity about the upcoming Professional Development Seminar in Houston (March 2010). I will also be doing Portfolio Reviews at the SNAG Conference (the Portfolio Reviews at the Conference are free).

(favorite techniques? any good jokes? you can even put your flickr/twitter/blog links here too)
ANSWER: People can also see more work or connect with me on these sites. I look forward to getting to know all of you on line.

Twitter http://twitter.com/harrietee
Objectfetish http://www.objectfetish.com/jewelry/harriete-berman-v-52.html
Crafthaus http://crafthaus.ning.com/profile/HarrieteEstelBerman
Flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/harriete-estel-berman/
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/harriete.estel.berman
LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/in/harrieteestelberman

Thanks Harriete! it's been great to get to know you- ciao-M

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

you might be a metalsmith if....

this is from a post I had on my profile a couple of days ago....

feel free to chime in your answers in the comments section!

You may be a Metalsmith if..........

Maureen Brusa Zappellini

you kind of like the smell of liver of sulfur

Carolyn Shepard Miller

you have dreams of flaring out a spinner ring

you picture your lungs and brain coated with silver and gold

Maureen Brusa Zappellini

the nastier your fingers look the happier you are (cause it means you have had bench time)

Carolyn Shepard Miller

a little bit of drill dust is mighty tasty on the sammich!

Beverly Gloyd

you could envision spending every penny on tools and metal!

Pam Chott

You have a drill "tattoo" on at least one finger.
Your husband (or wife) suspects you're having an affair with your bench.
You'd rather shop for stones than clothes.

Shannon Conrad

The smell of machine oil is a turn on.
You can't remember what your hands looked like with fingernails.
You've ever said, "Just one more {fill in the blank} and I'll be done for the day."

Erkki Kokko

...if you #%@&¤#@% like a pirate, when you break the sawblade just when you are almost there, on the end of piercing...

Bill Roberts

lol.... if a lady with a hammer turns you on.. ;)

Erkki Kokko

...the scrapyards dog won't bark at YOU!

Maureen Brusa Zappellini

you have a difficult time putting a negative connotation on the word "tool"

Tamra Gentry

you'll sell a kidney for the perfect stone.

Maureen Brusa Zappellini

or...you'd set your kidney stones! lol

Daniel Spirer

you ask your wife to send your body to the refiner when you die...

because you know there's some value in there.

Victoria Lansford

If when you have money you by metal and stones and if there is any leftover you buy food and clothes.

any more? :-)

happy thanksgiving!- MBZ

Monday, November 23, 2009

Michael David Sturlin- AZ treasure

Metalsmiths Unite
Blog Interview with Michael David Sturlin 11/17/2009

How would you describe what you do as an artist?
I'm a goldsmith and studio jewelry artist. I work with precious metals and gemstones.

what inspires your designs?
Minimalism, practicality, functionality. My design aesthetic tends towards simplicity.
My basic inspiration comes from combining skill with tool and fluency with material.

how long have you been involved in this type of making? (how did you start?)
Nearly 40 years, professionally for 35 years, I started making jewelry in 1970.

where are you located?( email if you want to share, or city/town that you live in)
I have a private studio in Scottsdale Arizona. My email address is michaelsturlinstudio@cox.net

do you have a website or etsy/artfire/1000market etc store? (list url here)
http://www.goldcrochet.com
http://www.michaeldavidsturlin.com
http://michaelsturlinstudio.ganoksin.com/blogs/
http://www.facebook.com/MichaelSturlinStudio

what other ways do you market your work?(shows, galleries, brick and mortar stores)
My jewelry is represented in galleries. I don't currently sell work online.

do you teach? if so, where-
I'm a faculty member at the Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts in San Francisco http://www.revereacademy.com
At this point in my career I am devoting the majority of my time to teaching. I work with students at all levels from beginners to accomplished professionals.
I also offer private instruction and group workshops in my studio and I teach extensively as a visiting guest artist.

any sage advice for newcomers that you would like to share?
Focus on skill development. Start by working with simple tools and traditional techniques. This is the most useful foundation for building the vocabulary to produce work which will bring forth a recognizable style and develop into an artistic identity. Skill comes first, then, as fluency increases, individuality in expression follows.

where do you envision your work going in the next year? (artistic direction)
I will be teaching more advanced intensive workshops and longer programs at fewer venues. This will provide the opportunity to work with the participants at a deeper level.

anything else you would like to share?

Wherever a person works, it is important to think of that space as a studio. Whether it is just a kitchen table with a couple tools, a closet, a corner in a basement, or a well furnished room, the attitude and perspective of the practitioner is more important than the physicality of the environment. Thinking of the work area as a studio sets the right frame of mind and cultivates the intention to produce good work, regardless of how limited the facilities might be.

*********************************************************************************

Many thanks to Michael David Sturlin for taking the time to give us a glimpse into his work and teachings- It has been a real pleasure to get to know him through Metalsmiths Unite and our mutual Arizona connections- I look forward to many more opportunities to converse and hope to see him here in Tucson during the Gem show!

Ciao----MBZ

Monday, November 16, 2009

Julie Sanford - support admin and BAMB!

Today I will post the interview with Julie Sanford, who has been a big support to Metalsmiths Unite in our year and a half of being a bonified group. It has been a delight to get to know her and we both have enjoyed getting Helsinki black licorice...(thanks Erkki)

so, here she is, Julie Sanford, BAMB! (Bad Ass Metals Babe) :-)

How would you describe what you do as an artist?
-I fabricate fine art jewelry.

what inspires your designs?
Incredible things I see in nature, unique gemstones, great art and design.

how long have you been involved in this type of making? -Professionally 20 years but I was raised by a very creative single mother and we were always doing some kind of craft. We even had a ceramic shop in the basement.

where are you located?( email if you want to share, or city/town that you live in)
-The studio is in Grand Haven, Michigan

do you have a website or etsy/artfire/1000market etc store? (list url here)
- http://www.juliesanforddesigns.com

what other ways do you market your work?(shows, galleries, b+m stores)
-I show in about 10 outdoor fine art shows a year and am also represented at a museum shop, jewelry store and several art galleries.

do you teach? if so, where- (I’ll link this to the website of teaching institution)
-I teach at my studio in Grand Haven and will be at Bead Fest Wire, the Bead & Button Show and Bead Fest Philadelphia in 2010.

any sage advice for newcomers that you would like to share?
-Value your work, be inspired by other artists, express yourself freely and don't let fear paralyze your growth as an artist or in your career.

where do you envision your work going in the next year? (artistic direction)
-I did some new, complex, multi-part pieces for a gallery show this fall where I used the imagery in jasper interpret the design. It was exciting, fun and I will be doing more of that.

anything else you would like to share? (favorite techniques? any good jokes? you can even put your flickr/twitter/blog links here too)
-My favorite technique is soldering when I am all alone in the studio, the sun filtering in, music on, talking/laughing out loud at myself. To anyone outside looking in I'm a complete NUT, but for me.. Life's a Bench!

LOL, thanks Julie! Next, I will begin interviewing members of the group- stay tuned! (and Happy 'smithing!)- M

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

introductions are at hand- Maureen BZ

With apologies to those who are sick of hearing me blab about myself, I thought it would be a good idea to start the Metalsmiths Unite! interviews at the beginning- with my interview-

Maureen Brusa Zappellini

(Metalsmiths Unite! founder)

How would you describe what you do as an artist? I’m a metalsmith who is obsessed with metalsmithing. I’m passionate about Craft and the creative process. My work reflects my origins as a painter/sculptor by the use of color structure shape and texture in my work.

what inspires your designs? relationships between objects, architectural structures (both historic and contemporary), decay, natural textures, collections of repetitive objects (stone walls, stacks of timber, staircases), place, juxtaposition.

how long have you been involved in this type of making? (how did you start?)
I started Metalsmithing in 1986, during summers home from Art school (School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston) - I was lucky enough to have had someone who was willing to apprentice me for 2 summers and take me from a complete novice to a competent basic silversmith.(both in Ogonquit Maine and Portsmouth NH)

where are you located?
Tucson Arizona- land of giant Gem shows!

do you have a website or etsy/artfire/1000market etc store?
yes, http://cosmosmoon.etsy.com , http://mbzap.etsy.com (that one is for my older pieces) and http://cosmosmoonjewelry.artfire.com (I opened an artfire account just to have a bit more exposure, plus it is a local Tucson company) I also have a "fan page" for Cosmo's moon http://www.facebook.com/cosmosmoon?ref=ts

what other ways do you market your work?
I have my work in some galleries and also a couple of boutiques . I am just starting to participate in local retail shows and events. Trying a little bit of everything now, and still trying to find the perfect combination! I'm always looking for new venues for my work-

do you teach? if so, where- I do love to teach, but am not currently holding classes- Previously I have taught in Florence Italy at Metallo Nobile (for a short while) and Fuji studio (as a TA) . I also have taught for Tucson Parks and Rec program , but had to stop because of scheduling issues. I am currently developing a couple of workshops that I hope to begin teaching in 2010.

any sage advice for newcomers that you would like to share? Sure, for the newbies, I advise you to just roll up your sleeves and play! Find out the limitations of your material, and don’t get too stuck on producing a finished product. And if you have trouble with a piece put it down and stop working on it for at least 24 hours...sometimes a little distance is all it takes to give you the perspective you need.

where do you envision your work going in the next year? Having recently given notice at my day job, I’m excited about becoming more independent this year. I will use the extra time to finish developing my pewter urns and also revisiting my mixed metals and strap bracelet line.

anything else you would like to share? It has been truly amazing watching Metalsmiths Unite grow this past year- I’m looking forward to seeing our community develop in the future, and I hope to be able to meet with some of you this year at one of the metals events that I plan on attending ...the Tucson Gem show, Yuma Symposium, and hopefully I will be able to attend the SNAG conference this year as well. Metalsmiths Unite!

Coming up- Interviews with Erkki Kokko (Metalsmiths Unite! officer and Finnish metals madman)
Julie Sanford, (Metalsmiths Unite support admin.)

Once these "Official" interviews are completed I will be interviewing members of the Metalsmiths Unite community- I'm sure that there are many interesting stories out there, and I look forward to reading each interview!

ciao for now! Happy 'smithing- Maureen BZ

Monday, November 9, 2009

Gifts for the Metalsmith

As holidays are coming up, I have been thinking about gifts.

Every year my husband struggles to figure out what he wants to get me for a gift-
he is baffled, as I really do not need anything traditionally girly..
and he knows what kind of reaction he would get if
he hung up his brain and went to Kay Jewelers
to get me a (yikes) heart solitaire locket
or some other commercial crapola..

Metalsmiths have lots of hammers, so you can guess what the
outcome would be...something would get ...forged. :-)

So I was thinking of helping all of our significant others, giving them a sort of master list to look at for Metalsmith Gifts... and I'd love to have your input! I'll gather a list of our wishes, and post them on this blog later in December- (and I'll announce it on the Metalsmiths Unite! facebook page)
Both practical things like tools / books and ideological things like world peace are welcome on this list

I'll give it a start-

world peace/ the end of hunger
really good hand cream
a cool apron for the shop
a bench mounted band saw
a coupon for 100 solitary hours at my bench

I could go on and on...but I'll let You have your turn- to add to the wish list simply leave a comment on this blog, or if you want to do it privately you can message me on Facebook and I'll cut and paste it (anonymously) to the master list.
then..
I will publish the list in December- and will announce it on our Facebook page-
Have fun with this,( I look forward to seeing the end result.)
happy 'smithing everyone!
ciao- Maureen BZ

Friday, November 6, 2009

Phase 2...the BLOG

Hello my Metalsmithing friends!

I had an a-ha moment today as I was driving to work...I thought, "well, why don't I just start a blog for metalsmiths Unite!? " and then I immediately thought, "Why haven't I thought of this sooner?!!"

So here we go, into what I will now consider phase 2 of metalsmiths Unite- (not like any of this has been planned..) what I would like to do with this blog is have it here for

interviews of Metalsmiths Unite! members
MU member's reviews of books/shows/events about metalsmithing
plus links to each other's blogs.

this project will certainly take some time to develop , but I think it is a good solution to dealing with the limitations of Facebook, therefore giving MU members a more developed and flexible forum to elaborate on discussions and introduce their work to the community.

within the next weeks I will be developing a blog post schedule- and will be introducing myself (who you already know) and the other support people that have helped me during the year and a half of Metalsmiths Unite's growth.

I'm really excited about the possibilities for this blog- and hope you are too-
please excuse the mess while I'm doing construction....I'll be careful not to make too much noise
:-)
Happy 'Smithing!
ciao-Maureen