We have a Fine Art gallery with a number of painters and artists
represented.  How does art metal fit in?
     Fine metal work is a popular addition to many homes and public places.  As the art and craft of metalsmithing has been revived in the last 20 year, the public has a new awareness of the potential of this medium.  Yet, the education of each of us continues as the smiths working with metals continue to “push the envelope” of possibilities.  Free form use of shapes and wrapping techniques can give the impression of lightness and suspension even when the raw material was formed with thousands of pound of pressure.  The high temperatures used to prepare iron for hot work are astounding. 
     When the sculpted piece is seen in a gallery the public is invited to share in some of the forming process as they enjoy it in its final form.  Much like glass art, the techniques used to sculpt the work are an integral part of appreciating the art form. 

Metal furnishings are very popular.  What kinds of things can I find for my
Gallery that are a little different?
     We see a wide variety of metal furnishings today.  All ranges are available from the simple patio table fabricated overseas, to one of a kind pieces seen in Architectural Digest or other designer magazines.  We're told that customers visit a gallery when they are looking for that special piece of art work, and will often return and to “visit it”  several times before making the final decision to buy. 
     Art metal work can expand the horizons of the collector.  A Monarch Butterfly table constructed with classical techniques such as repose’ or brought to a high polish to shine like silver is more like jewelry for the home.  A sculpted frog 4-5 times its normal size brings a sense of whimsy to a room or entry-way.  Think of a life-sized Blue Heron standing near a sun room door, bringing the world of the gardener inside.  These are just a starter list of the many ideas available here at Thorne Metals Studio. 

We have customers purchasing items in a wide range of prices, can you help us?
     Metalsmithing is practical in that it can be scaled up to meet the requests of a buyer seeking custom pieces as well as scaled down to make art affordable to those with excellent taste who are also on a budget.  Retail items such as candle sconces, individual roses, decorative bowls and plates, mirrors, letter openers etc. can be created using themes from the world of nature which have a functional use as well.  Candles and candle lighting are a good example of a popular items which are transformed by the beauty of a brightly polished swallow in flight or a dragon-fly perched on top of a copper lily pad.  A single King Salmon or smaller species of salmon makes a handsome gift for the fishing fan.  A figure of a shore bird sculpted of three pieces of metal riveted with copper rivets makes a beautiful addition to a smaller home or condominium.