my apprentice's work in copper

hammered copper cuff, copper, xavier trahan 2011

it's such a delight to pass on valuable metalworking skills to the next generation.  here is a gorgeous piece of copper work by my apprentice, also my son, who picks up studio techniques so quickly! he will be studying metalwork and flame working at the New England School of Crafts this summer. please click on etsy for more photos and sale information.

more about my bird ring

bird without a nest ring,sterling and fine silver and turquoise, kimberly nogueira 2011

i've fabricated several bird pieces for my "woodland creatures" series.  here is a  ring that is for sale on etsy.  this one is especially meaningful because the original toy that i used to make the mold for this work is from my grandmother's childhood era.  she was never able to explore the world the way that she truly wanted due to societal constraints that she could not fight.  however, i was, and this ring symbolizes the joy experienced when you find the courage to fly out of the nest to follow your heart, however messy the journey, despite strong pressure to conform.

finished jelly bean ring

jelly bean ring, chrysoprase, chalcedony, sterling and fine silver, kimberly nogueira 2011

jelly bean ring, chrysoprase, chalcedony, sterling and fine silver, kimberly nogueira 2011

here is the finished chrysoprase and chalcedony jelly bean ring--happiness for the finger!