Biography

While in graduate school at the University of Wisconsin-Madison I came to realize that I enjoyed making things as much as measuring things. Designing and constructing a wind tunnel was as interesting as running experiments in it. Making metal models to run in a wind tunnel was just as satisfying as collecting and interpreting data from those models. I started taking courses in process engineering especially metallurgical and metal casting engineering.

My spouse and I had an antique business to pay the bills while we were at Madison. During this period I worked on repairing and reproducing old metal items. I soon realized that designing and making one’s own work was more satisfying.

I have no formal art/craft education and I am self-taught in pewter working. Of course, my technical background gave me a foundation to work from. I have worked as a one person shop for almost 30 years. I personally make each piece.

My son while in high school and college helped in casting and sales; he continues to help with sales. My shop is low tech. Most processes are done by hand. Files and scrapers are my most used tools on my workbench.

To make a casting you need a model or pattern. My models are sculpted in clay or wax. The molds are made of sand, plaster, rubber, metal or stone. I only use the highest quality lead-free pewter and alloy my own lead-free solder.

My design approach is an eclectic approach. Historic sources as well as nature provide design inspiration. If a piece lends itself, I try to incorporate humor into the work. More recently I have collaborated on designs with other artists/craftspeople.

Contacts

Many questions can be answered via email. If you would like to speck with me on the phone, email me with your phone number including best times to call. I prefer returning calls after 7 pm EST. But, I am flexible for people with time zone or business hour considerations.

Custom work

I design and produce custom pewter pieces for organizations, museums, catalogs and corporate gift needs. I am interested in helping to design a piece with you or take an existing design that your organization already has. Usual minimum is $2000 or about 250 pieces. Inquire for details.

Non-Profit organization fundraising

I get a lot of satisfaction working with non-profits designing and making pewter for their fundraising needs. I often have reduced rates for non-profits. Each year I support several non-profits through out right donations of work. Inquire for details.