We are up-dating a small chapel and would like to bring liturgical metal sculpture into the space.  Ideas?
     There are again many possibilities using the flexibility of metal inside a beautiful church or temple.  Candle sconces or lighting, light and airy screens, commemorative crosses all make beautiful accents.  The number of types of cross designs exceeds the amount of space we have here to talk about them!  Graceful vines woven into a Celtic Cross or multiple metals woven together can create a center piece which will remain in the minds of the members and guests who attend.  Religious symbols such as roses, doves, and menorah lamps can be brought to life using fine metals.  Memorials and signs (or even a weathervane) are wonderful way to welcome those attending and can be done with fine lettering and symbols to commemorate a loved one, the name or theme of the church. 

Our governing committee has some strong feelings about the design.  How do you work with a group? 
     The goal at Thorne Metals Studio is to end up with a final piece of work that is pleasing to the client(s).  During the planning process, it is important to have many points of view represented. Occasionally, consensus has not been reached about the desire for liturgical art work over expansion of the church school program, for example.  That's another matter!  However, with the group process in mind, we would proceed with a variety of options or brainstorming, first. 
     Once a concept or theme is identified, then several concepts can be discussed with a final proposal submitted with concept and detail sketches.  If there is a lead person appointed too oversee the bidding process, much of the planning can occur with out the taking the time of the entire group.  However, Paul is skilled at working with a variety of people and inputs, having been an engineer for many years. 

Our building has a definite style established with existing metal work and we are updating some of the space.  Can you work with us?
     Traditional styles can vary from the ornate to the stark.  The great thing about ornamental and decorative metal work is that new work can be combined with existing work by picking up the main theme of the design.  Using a scroll design for example, the number of curves and the tightness of the curves can be reduced thereby decreasing the “busyness” of the work while at the same time echoing the theme of the original design.  Or pickets can be added to a design which has too many curves, easing the effect of the design on the eye. 
     In the opposite vein, iron work can “dress up” a simple space by adding carved bolts, heat coloring, or using details such as twists and collars while not detracting from the previous work.  Of course, sometimes it's better to just start over!