molliemade design: doing benchwork

As my saw slid through a thin sheet of copper and then a thick, I thought about the differences between my method of line work and a 2-Dimensional artists'. The elemental aspect of metal sings to my soul. I like to imagine what my work might look like 100 years from now or 1000. The metal will endure, but will the surface treatments (i.e. color or texture)? Perhaps they will erode or fade over time. I have never put a 'makers mark' on my work, but every line and curve are made by my tools in my hands. Tonight, I cut out a flock of birds, two Little Princes, a fox and some craggy mountains butted against a smooth hill. Layering is key. Watching the raw metal morph into something with depth and texture, amazes me time and time again. Here is some of my new raw: These are parts and pieces for a literary inspired triptych. The Little Prince done in three panels. Something new and exciting.

I am wondering about personal preferences...before I lay out my work to be consumed/purchased/collected...which pieces are you feeling? This week I have amped up my production, but each piece is still one-of-a-kind. & most of them are dbl. sided, with each side unique to it's flip. My biggest struggle is moving past my personal color palette. Which ones should be part of my line? (scroll down to see more in prev. entries) Multiples must made! Sound off on your favorite colors, please. A few in progress shots for good measure: I would love feedback dear public.

Among the collection I am building for the upcoming Mission Artwalk are these 4 dbl. sided pendents and some odds and ends from a couple of larger pieces. These little beauties are in phase 4 of their process. After texturing the metal, I patina. Then then layers of color and embellishments are added. Truly, I should grab something to blend with, but, eh... my finger works.

My first arts fair is coming up quick. Lately, dusk falls and as my son sleeps deeply above, I retreat downstairs to my studio bunker and begin making these things: Oh, how I adore packages and the postal service. Today, the truck brought me a gross of 2/0 sawblades and the metal I need to start making a commission based on The Little Prince. Now that is a commitment! Current goal is to have finished work on August 8th for the Mission Artwalk. Then, to photograph said work before the show and post it for my new Etsy page launch.

Getting started tonight my studio snapshots: After 2 hrs layering surface and 15 minutes spent back upstairs, comforting my teething and sniffling toddler, this is what I accomplished: Tonight's work time was very freeing. I must admit, my early training emphasized traditional techniques and encouraged us to be metal purists. It has taken years of waffling between the old ways and the new possibilities, for me to build up to layering color and playing with materials. & now to keep on experimenting and layering...more, more, more.

Naptime and Bedtime are my magical studio times. When my little guy's head hits that crib mattress, it is down to the studio I go. Working towards a goal has helped give me that extra boost of motivation to get things done! I plan to enter a local show, The Mission Artwalk this summer. More info as the date draws near.

This guy: Has been my whole world for 16 months, but now I am taking baby steps into creating new work. My family bought our first home and I recently complete my new, basement studio. With the help of a very loving Grandmommy, I will be able to spend more time making again. Today, I set up an Etsy account! A new line of working is being designed and fabricated down in my miniature world, with the goal of applying for and selling at the Mission Art Walk and on the new Etsy page My business is: MollieMade Design Look for item postings soon!