I worked with Metal Clay before I started working with ceramic clay. Everything is smaller, the amount of clay, the space it takes to store and the kiln. It was something that was easy to do when my kids were smaller. I have really pared down in the last few years, focusing on Ceramics, but I haven’t given up the Metal Clay. Though, I did discover that I am now allergic to the bronze clay! So silver it is! The biggest drawback for ceramicists, is the price of the clay.
For those unfamiliar with Metal Clay, it was developed by Mitsubishi in the early 1990’s. They no longer make the original Precious Metal Clay, but there are new brands. I sculpt it the same way I would any clay (except A LOT smaller!), then fire it in a mini kiln. Once it has been fired to temperatures around 1600F, the organic materials burn off leaving .99 silver. It’s pretty cool!
I make jewelry with it. Not fancy jewelry like you find at the mall jewelry store. I make jewelry that I would want to wear.

If you want to come try it, sign up for one of the workshops I have listed! Or contact me to set up your own class of four friends.

I know, it’s hard to see. And that is exactly how I felt for the last few weeks.

I started this project after brainstorming ideas with Jeanine for our show that opens at the end of the month. It’s called, Just for Fun! Keeping this in mind, I began this idea to make a large raven. I collected used materials and began with joy in my heart! By the end of the day, the joy was turning to frustration. By the end of the week, I felt discouraged and hopeless. I kept thinking that this was supposed to be fun. I kept putting pressure on myself to finish perfectly and quickly.

After some coaching on Monday, I decided to not to trash the raven. I would finish without the pressure of perfection. And yesterday, I started to see the light!

Now there are other considerations, like where on earth will this large sculpture go? How will I get it to New Hope? Will it even fit out the door?

But really, I don’t care.  Now, I can see that it is possible. It is hopeful and silly and FUN! Even at this ugly stage, I know it could be wonderful.

Sometimes, it is hard to see how to accomplish our goals. I am so thankful for encouraging friends and coaching that helped me get out of my own way.  I imagine there are a few of you who can relate! Here is my encouragement to you.

Meerkat on the move and Class Info