When I first started doing my artwork full time about 17 years ago, I never dreamed I'd have to
work at keeping passionate. But now I know that boredom with myself and my metal work will creep in if I don't take time to nurture myself. So every year I usually take January/February and do some kind of exploration, just to see what pops out.
I love grids and squares and have used them in my work previously, but my short little detour last year into jewelry-making made me want to treat those squares in a looser way. I struggled for a couple weeks (my good friend told me after hearing me complain, "Walk away! Walk away! Let you subconscious chew on it!"). Finally about a week ago a structure that would allow me to hang the squares versus attach them to a board came to mind. I roughed it in and instantly got excited. Here are some photos of my explorations so far. I know the whole concept needs some refinement, but I'm excited! (and for me that's half the battle).
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| First piece prototype. Torch-fired enameled copper squares with either inkjet color decals or iron-based fired decals that turn sepia. Many jump rings! |
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| First piece prototype. Adding an outside frame of brazed copper pipe that lets the squares hang 2" off the wall. |
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| Same, from the side. I'm thinking a bit over-built at this point. |
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| New piece with the concept of it representing my 'creative well'. It will hang in the same manner off the wall. Still working on refinement to the outer structure. |
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| Close up of tiles. |
One of the other thoughts I've had is to hang or braze letters/words off of the support structure, or even branches or other small dimensional pieces that relate to the piece's concept. Onward! Excited!
