Artist Statement
I use chasing and repousse techniques in my copper work, meaning I hammer from both the front and back of the metal to get dimension and detail. My boxes frequently include layers of piercework and riveting. Some of my vessels begin with copper pipe; others are created by raising flat sheets of copper using silversmithing stakes. I especially like to use acid etching and a hammered texture that resembles wood grain, as well as chemicals to produce a green patina.
Bio
I grew up in Fairfax, VA, graduated from Western Carolina University with a degree in geography, and returned to the area to work in mapping at one of the intelligence agencies. I have been working with copper for about 14 years and have been a member of several local co-op galleries, and am currently a board member with the Washington Guild of Goldsmiths. I participate in art festivals each year, and assist with coppersmithing classes at John C. Campbell Folk School in North Carolina.