Chasing and Repoussé

Repoussé (French for “to push out”) describes forming contours in sheet metal with dapping punches and other blunt tools and is usually performed on the reverse side of the metal piece.

Chasing refers to pressing details (lines, dots, textures) into the front of a design with smaller, specially shaped punches.

In both techniques, the hollow metal item is filled with flexible pitch to support the surface while it is being worked. In this Silver Passport Workshop we will explore this technique using hammers and chasing punches.

What you will walk away with:

String Of Pearls Workshop

A classic technique for creating necklaces, pearl knotting is perfect for all kinds of beads, not just pearls! During this workshop participants will make a necklace while learning cord selection, different necklace lengths, how to create consistent and sturdy knots between beads, and the use of bead tips to attach a clasp. No experience necessary.

Artist talk “Art For Art’s Sake”

Sunday, July 29 5:00pm
Popcorn Gallery
Glen Echo Park

Every artist has an approach to their work that is unique to them. Join me as I share a little about my process, and my journey as an artist, as well as answer some questions about this current wearable art collection.

Kai Sia interview

By Blair Anderson This last spring and summer I did a series of interviews with Kai Sia during the process of her creation of a body of work as an Exnihilo Artist In Residence at SilverWorks in Glen Echo Maryland. Kai has been working as an apprentice in my studio for the past year.
A beekeeper in a protective suit holds up a honeycomb frame covered in bees. •
Photograph of a metallic floral brooch next to a dead bee.

Etching

In this Silver Passport Workshop we will explore the technique of acid etching metal. Traditionally a printing method, images are transferred to metal creating a relief.

What we will cover in this workshop:

  • The basic steps of etching
  • Doodle (illustrative) etch vs. Photo etch

What you will walk away with:

Gallery

The SilverWorks galleries have an ongoing display and sale of the work of artist in residence, Blair Anderson and SilverWorks instructors.

 

Ruth Beer Bletzinger

European roots, Ruth grew up and went to school in and around Boston, Massachusetts.

Ruth joins the SilverWorks team offering her finely tuned skill as both a silversmith but especially as a beadsmith. Her eye for color combination and fine detail culminates in nuanced works of wearable art. Her skill is only rivaled by her gracious and encouraging spirit.

(languages: German, English, a little French)