Nancy Lee Designs: Handmade Metal Jewelry, Objects, and Instruction

The first weekend-long workshop was recently held in the Metalsmithing Classroom at Flame Art Studios. Downtown Indianapolis hasn’t seen this many women hammering since Rosie the Riveter’s time.

Mindy on the Sinusoidal Stake

Denise's Favorite Hammer

Not just hammering to beat metal into submission, no!  A hundred times no! Hammering skillfully, to place each individual blow just where it needed to go to move the metal just enough to cause the precise movement needed to create an armful of art.

Carla (right) is one happy bracelet maker!

Ok, so some practicing happened too. We talked of ergonomics, proper body positioning and not pointing your finger across the top of the hammer, ahem! And lots of laughter. But let me tell you, this was no hen party.  These were some serious-minded students out to learn! I was beyond proud – my heart was so full, and still is, every time I think if it.

Mindy's Gladiator Cuff

Fresh folded forms from Denise

At the end of it all, everyone went home with some shiny new work and some new skills. And who doesn’t dig a chick with skills? Not much else needs to be said that cannot be viewed here in these photos. Enjoy.

Denise, Mindy, Nancy, Carla

Psst: Take a class! If not from me, or if not in Indy, then SOMEWHERE! If in doubt as to your ability or creativity, read “Perfect Imperfection- An Artist’s Encouragement!”