People often ask about the techniques that
I use to transform raw steel into artwork. First, all of
my work is done by hand. Each piece is an original. Even
subjects that I do often, such as flowers and fish, vary
subtly from piece to piece. Forging starts after the metal
is brought to a bright red heat. At this temperature, I hammer,
pierce, and cut it into various shapes. Once this hot work
is complete, individual parts are forged together into a
single composition. Finally, every surface is smoothed, and
burnished and heat colored to the desired finish and feel.
Most
of my art incorporates nature subjects, such as fish, vines,
and birds native to the Northwest. In my work, I struggle
to achieve an active balance between strength and flowing
graceful actions. I enjoy interior work very much because
it allows the lovely patina of the metals to shine through.
In recent years, teaching of introductory and advanced
blacksmithing has become an important focus of Thorne Metals
Studio.
You are invited to come by the studio and visit
but request that you call first. Please keep in mind that
most
things
in the studio are either sharp, hot or will turn your hands
black. Welcome!
 |
 |
|
|
