I love spending time with my metalsmithing community. I love learning from them and sharing what I know. I love that we geek out over things together like fire and tools and processes. I consider it an extraordinary honor when I am invited to participate in such events and share my flavor of crazy.
This summer I have two such opportunities, and I invite you to consider coming along for the ride…
June 22 - 28 at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts
Join me for a week of play in the foothills of the Smokey Mountains this summer as I lead the Mad Scientist's Enameling Studio workshop at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts! In this workshop, students will learn to create dimensional forms in sewn copper foil. Using liquid white enamel as a base, they will experiment with additives to achieve a variety of colors, textures, and finishes: ceramic stains will be employed for color effects; the addition of CMC will allow for dimensional extrusions to create enamel “Puffy Paint”; Silver nitrate fired with raku will generate metallic effects; and MAP gas post-firing coloration will create selective surface enhancement. The emphasis is on creative play and exploration. No prior enameling experience required.
July 15 - 17 Colorado Metalsmithing Associate Pre-Conference Workshop in Denver
Stitch and dip! Using paper pattern-making techniques and cold connections, students will construct volumetric forms from copper foil. We will then add liquid enamel that may be used to both strengthen and decorate. The immediacy of this technique provides a means of quick, dimensional construction for those who may not have access to forming tools.
The Arrowmont workshop is longer, a little pricier, and includes more information about color and surface effects with liquid enamel. Each starts with sewing copper foil and stabilizing with liquid enamel. They both include an structor with purple bangs at no extra charge.
Artist holding a white sphere made of sewn and enameled copper.