HAMMERWORKS EPIC BODYWEAR

My last commission was uniquely something not for the body. This is a rare but enjoyable occurrence, where someone asks me to create a compelling free-standing object. I love this challenge, and found the forging process of shaping and texturing the metal equally gratifying, knowing that people would regularly handle the sinuous shapes these leaf napkin rings possess. This set of four was commissioned for a beautiful lady in Trinidad as a wedding gift. I am lucky to have had this opportunity, and have thought of creating a line like these for people who want something distinctive in their dining experience.

One of my best clients, Jennifer Cooper here in New York City, set me to the task of creating a bold ring from a (very) large stone in her personal collection. At first attempt, the stone dwarfed its setting and proved unstable. My second endeavor to create a dynamic and sturdy setting seems to have succeeded, much to her delight. This rough boulder opal measures two inches at both of its largest dimensions, and is HEAVY. In my opinion this beauty does not belong on the hand–which bumps into things in gesturing–but Jennifer loves truly bold and unusual objects. I aim to please, and it is a stunning piece.