Anvil Envy

 Brinnngggg, brinnnggg...Hello?...We have had a cancellation in our formforming class starting tomorrow and have a space available if you are able to attend...Um, let me call you right back.  I had tried everything to get into this class and had to settle being on the waiting list, with no actual hope of getting in. I had actually forgotten that it was coming up. They called on Wednesday morning for a Thursday evening start, which if I were close this would not be a problem but the school is an hour away and somebody has to tell husband that I will not be working on Friday. Also, I would have to call my BFF, ask to sleep on her couch, and to be transported to and from the art school for the weekend.  So I spilled all this to Husband quickly and hoped for the best...which I got. He said that I had the money put back, a free place to stay, and would not have this chance with this instructor again so I had better get to planning.  Yep, he is a keeper.  

This Masters class was taught by Charles Lewton-Brain, the founder of the formforming technique (using hammers, force, and heat to make beautiful organic forms with metal sheet).  What that means is that all the other ladies (and one gentleman) KNEW what an opportunity this was.   I, on the other hand, just thought that it would be a great thing to learn (piddle with) to incorporate into my sculptures.  Little did I know what a great opportunity I was given.  The amount of information he shared with us was incredible and he can forge metal at the speed of light.  By Sunday afternoon my head was stuffed full and was reeling.  I needed a nap.

I also have a list of other things I need...a vise and a couple of special hammers (to start), some soldering supplies for annealing, fire blocks because apparently me using a cinder block is bad because it might blow up and an anvil.  Now I don't really NEED an anvil but I always have anvil envy when I take a metal class there.

Now to the picture above.  While I really like the finished piece, (so did the instructor, yea) the actual formed metal part looked nothing like it was supposed to.  It did not start out to look like a boat.  The plan was to have it curve around on itself, which mine did not, and have a beautiful flowing leaf form on the other end, mine was stunted.  I was still happy that I was able to get the metal to move somewhat, if just not in the intended way.  As for the color, during the patina discussion, I offered my piece up for the demo and the lovely blue color gave way to the mermaid idea.  

It was a lovely weekend with great weather, spending time with BFF, and being immersed in a new art form.  I could not ask for anything better.

Peace,

Hilari

#arrowmont #craftexperience

One slight push and Weeeeee!

 One Slight Push

I have become obsessed with creating these little metal based rockers.  I have actually only made 3 but I really enjoy making and playing with them. Using hand sheers I cut a 2.5 to 3 inch circle out of a metal sheet from Lowes, sand the edges, and bend it in half with a sturdy edge and wooden mallet.  I learned the hard way not to smash it shut.  Fitting the edges together as best as possible is important for ease of motion and to center the bend.  After the figures are made I use a drill press to make the holes for the wire to attach to.  Balance is key for the function of these pieces so I have had to add a little weight or slightly bend the figures to get a smooth rocking motion. I believe my next one will be a mermaid.

This past weekend our book making club, KBAG, had a gallery showing at Striped Light, a hands on printing press downtown.  Friday night around 60 people enjoyed our set up and many asked questions about construction and materials. Saturday was sale day and even though the rain (and UT vs Georgia, which we won, breaking our 5, yes 5, game losing streak) kept many at bay, we had a good time creating posters on one of the presses.  A big thanks to Brian for opening his studio to us and introducing us to his sweet daughter Samantha and Lilly, their four legged partner in crime.  Woof!

It is about that time of year for me to start thinking about what I am going to make for Christmas presents.  Actually, I started much earlier with what I thought would be the perfect gift... crochet pokey dot stockings. Oh, in the picture they were adorable.  Nope, not adorable at all.  I'm not sure if it was me or the pattern but was a bust.  And I was so proud of myself for getting a jump on things.

Monday is just about over so the weekend is just around the corner!

Peace,
Hilari