I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy teaching metalsmithing. Turns out, I love it (so far). Breaking down a project into steps, I now realize how much I learned from the woman who taught me, Thea Ernest.
Thea has some of her work in my shop and every time I show it to someone, I feel compelled to say "that was made by the woman who taught me how to metalsmith". Then I usually say, "however her work here is not really representative of how meticulous and precise she is". I know the amount of work and calculation that goes into her pieces, but some people may not. Her work looks effortless and that is because of her skill and expert craftsmanship.
Several years ago now, she was asked by the The Preservation Society of Newport County to recreate much of the historic metal work, including intricate lighting details, for the Isaac Bell House on Bellevue Avenue in Newport, RI. I had the honor of working along side of her on this project and got a bird's eye view into how something historic is recreated from renderings to actual execution. It was then I realized the extent of her talent. Her precision and ability to replicate was staggering.
I was able to work on historic pieces of metal and got to sign my name on the backs of some pieces over which I had labored. It was a privilege not many people get to experience in life.
Thea taught me how to make things out of metal, and now its my turn to teach. I hope I am good enough and I can only dream to be such an inspiration.
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