An 'Artisan Maker' is a person who combines a high level of skill and knowledge with a keen sense of design. They will personally make each piece, using more labour intensive hand work methods. Most often each piece is a one of a kind original work. Commonly their work will also tend to employ more traditional methods and techniques.
This is a short list of individuals that I think highly of. I can recommend the quality of their work, plus their attitude towards art and artifact.
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The Bridge is group of artists of divergent
media and shared outlook inspired by the form and
content of Celtic historical traditions. The art work
they create utilizes the age old techniques and tools of
enamelling, stone carving, stained glass, tempera
paints, silversmithing and blacksmithing. |
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David is an old friend, I've known him even longer than the almost two decades that he has been working as an artisan blacksmith. We have worked on a number of projects together over the years. (David has an engineering background that often balances against my art training.) |
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I first met Jim and Erica my first year as a full time artisan maker. Jim's ideas about art and craft have strongly influenced my own. We construct 'The Garden' at Summerfolk each summer. Jim's recent work are sculptural pieces formed of copper tubing - with lines similar to those in my own forged work. |
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Brenda is a friend from college days. Again, I knew her for years before she developed her skills as an award winning jeweller. Her fine silver and gold work, with a stress on inlay, is exceptional. Brenda is also a member of the Celtic Artists group - AN DROICHED. |
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I have known Scott since we both were at art schools, he at Sheridan while I was at OCA. He has always had the true artists vision that I have been envious of. Hired straight out of this animation training by Lucas Films, he has gone on to work as a concept artist with all the major studios. Now back in Canada, he continues his carrier as a free lance artist. |
Gary and Lorina Stephens
- Five Rivers Chamanry
I met Lorina when she was organizing the
original Orangeville Medieval Festival in 1992. This was
the genesis of the 'Norse Encampment' program. Latter,
Garry started learning the trade of Cooperage. Some of the
first historic pieces he did were reproductions I
commissioned for the 'Viking Encampment' at L'Anse aux
Meadows NHSC. His work has been seen in feature films such
as "Master & Commander". |
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