Materials: Lunch Box Tin, Sterling Silver, Fine Silver and Carnelian shown on Stainless Steel Cable
Dimensions: 1.75" x 1.875" x .19"
Lunch Box tin has been turned into a cabochon and bezel set in Sterling Silver. Carnelian stone and texture were added. There is a hidden bail and the Title of the piece stamped on the back. Shown on a Stainless Steel Cable made by the artist.
Photo credit: David Kocchi
Kay Cummins
Out And About Girls, Funky and Found Object Jewelry
Phoenix, AZ. USA
Colorful person. Colorful life! Influenced by graphics, childhood images and humor - my work says "come on let's have some fun!"
My degree and work prior to being a full time artist was primarily problem solving and organization. These skills now applied to recycling, metalsmithing and enameling serve me well.
Seeking out vintage items and the discovery of what could be.
Simply put, a Found Object is an item that is treasured for it's artistic value although it may not actually be precious. Most of us acquire and keep things because we like them, a stone or shell from a vacation, a toy from childhood, etc. Some of the Found Objects I currently use are vintage Billiard Balls, Lunch Boxes, Tins, and Computer Keyboards.
Ideas evolve from the found object. I often ask myself "What can I do this this?" I think about the possible theme, what I like about the item, and what Wordplay could work. Sometimes this is immediate; other times it hangs out in my studio for months.
Once the design idea is set, I repurpose and obscure the objects' original function by layering and combining wordplay and enamel. Enamel is glass on metal and its' bright crisp color is created by heating powdered glass via torch & kiln firing. This describes my process; however, there are many steps along the way and humor and wordplay is included in each piece.
Because Found Objects may not withstand the riggers of many Metalsmithing techniques, I have learned and modified these steps so that the condition is preserved. I use both Hot and Cold Connections in fabricating my work, but all soldering and torch work must be done before a Found Object is set. Actually, all finishing work must be complete as well. No glues are used. Enameling has added the opportunity to add layers and colors as desired. I am a active member of the International Enamelists Society and have acquired many enameling skills.
My work is sold at juried Art Festivals and my website. I love being an artist! No doubt it is hard work. But I wouldn't trade what I do with anyone. I hope you enjoy these glimpses into my life, and that you enjoy my work.
Funky and Found Object Jewelry for Cool People - You know who you are!
Materials: Lunch Box Tin, Sterling Silver, Fine Silver and Carnelian shown on Stainless Steel Cable
Dimensions: 1.75" x 1.875" x .19"
Lunch Box tin has been turned into a cabochon and bezel set in Sterling Silver. Carnelian stone and texture were added. There is a hidden bail and the Title of the piece stamped on the back. Shown on a Stainless Steel Cable made by the artist.
Photo credit: David Kocchi
Kay Cummins
Out And About Girls, Funky and Found Object Jewelry
Phoenix, AZ. USA
Colorful person. Colorful life! Influenced by graphics, childhood images and humor - my work says "come on let's have some fun!"
My degree and work prior to being a full time artist was primarily problem solving and organization. These skills now applied to recycling, metalsmithing and enameling serve me well.
Seeking out vintage items and the discovery of what could be.
Simply put, a Found Object is an item that is treasured for it's artistic value although it may not actually be precious. Most of us acquire and keep things because we like them, a stone or shell from a vacation, a toy from childhood, etc. Some of the Found Objects I currently use are vintage Billiard Balls, Lunch Boxes, Tins, and Computer Keyboards.
Ideas evolve from the found object. I often ask myself "What can I do this this?" I think about the possible theme, what I like about the item, and what Wordplay could work. Sometimes this is immediate; other times it hangs out in my studio for months.
Once the design idea is set, I repurpose and obscure the objects' original function by layering and combining wordplay and enamel. Enamel is glass on metal and its' bright crisp color is created by heating powdered glass via torch & kiln firing. This describes my process; however, there are many steps along the way and humor and wordplay is included in each piece.
Because Found Objects may not withstand the riggers of many Metalsmithing techniques, I have learned and modified these steps so that the condition is preserved. I use both Hot and Cold Connections in fabricating my work, but all soldering and torch work must be done before a Found Object is set. Actually, all finishing work must be complete as well. No glues are used. Enameling has added the opportunity to add layers and colors as desired. I am a active member of the International Enamelists Society and have acquired many enameling skills.
My work is sold at juried Art Festivals and my website. I love being an artist! No doubt it is hard work. But I wouldn't trade what I do with anyone. I hope you enjoy these glimpses into my life, and that you enjoy my work.
Funky and Found Object Jewelry for Cool People - You know who you are!