Arrowmont Part 2

Yesterday I did a variety of demonstrations for my students starting with simple surface textures using files, sandpapers, and other abrasives. In the afternoon I covered roll printing and also gave a multi-part demo on sawing/filing/sanding/piercing/dapping for my beginners. Today we started the morning with hammer textures and chasing followed by patination and rivets in the afternoon. But before I did those demos, I went on a fantastic tram ride with several students and artist-in-residence, Dustin Farnsworth. Throughout the day I met individually with my students and, I must say, this is what really got me excited. I loved talking with each other them about what they are learning and what they would like to accomplish by Friday. This kind of time with my students is absolutely wonderful.

 samples

view from the tram

More images on Flickr.

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Arrowmont Part 1

I'm at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts this week to teach my class "It's the Little Things." This is my first time here and I am excited to get to know the school. I drove from Penland yesterday morning and what a lovely drive it was! It's basically all mountains the entire time and, lucky for me, nothing but blue skies. I was jostled out of dream-time, though, when I entered Gatlinburg, the complete opposite of the landscape proceeding it. The main street is packed with wax museums, souvenir shops, flashing lights, and fried food. It's a spectacular spectacle! Then Arrowmont is this sweet little place tucked away just off that crazy road and it feels incredibly secluded for being so close to all that kitsch.

After I got settled into my room yesterday afternoon I settled into the fantastic metals studio with the help of artist-in-residence, Lisa Johnson. Next I was toured around the facilities by Bill Griffith, the program director, followed by an instructor meeting. There are only four instructors this session and about 20 students. The feel in general is very personal.

I have five students in my class all with varied backgrounds and metals experience. We met for about two hours last night--I gave them a safety tour and talked about the class, we introduced ourselves and chatted. They seem like a great bunch already and I am looking forward to spending my week with them.

I ended my night by driving around town as I listened to Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn. 

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The Cover

My work made the cover of the Metalsmith Magazine's Exhibition in Print! I'm feeling many things at this moment and, honestly, I don't know where to begin...I will say the cover is beautiful with its white background and yellow accents. It feels like me. If at some point in the future I feel like I can better express myself here, I will.

This is an incredible honor.

 Seth Papac "orangeshagfauxwood" (one of my favorites from the exhibition)

You can see the list of participating artists here.

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