Mokume Gane is an ancient Japanese metalworking technique in which layers of metal are fused together using time, heat, and pressure (no solder). All aspects of the billet-making process will be covered, from billet design, proper cleaning and prep, to what temperatures and soak times to use for what metals, etc. We’ll be using the precise solid-state diffusion bonding method, and hot-forging our billets. After rolling the billets down to sheet and/or rod they will be ready to pattern. This 4-day expanded class will allow time for creating a second billet and/or learning some beginning patterning.
This workshop is a great follow on for those who have taken any of Anne’s online mokume gane patterning classes, but it is also open to those new to mokume gane. Participants can expect to create mokume gane billets and patterned samples, to be turned into finished work in their own studio or the next class. Detailed handouts including step-by-steps and equipment sources will be provided. Experience annealing and soldering silver is recommended.
About Anne
Biography:
Anne Wolf completed her BA in Applied Design at San Diego State University (SDSU) in 1993 and her MFA in Jewelry/Metals at SDSU in 1999. Her mokume gane metalwork is in the permanent collection at the Metal Museum in Memphis, Tennessee and was awarded a Bronze First seat by the NBSK in Japan. Her work has been shown across the U.S. and internationally including in Germany and Japan. Wolf studied under Japanese metalwork masters such as Ford Hallam, Hiroko Sato-Pijanowski, and James Binnion. Wolf has been a presenter for SNAG and taught/presented at many schools across the US such as Metalwerx, Touchstone, and Mendocino.
Statement:
I create my work with traditional hand tools to allow me time to see the work as it progresses and focuses on the details. This process to me is a meditation, and my humble imitations of nature are my way of paying tribute to our planet. The technique of mokume-gane is especially meaningful in this regard - as I pattern the metal, my tools are imitating the geologic processes of our earth. My chisel is the river, carving through the rock. My hammer is metamorphosis, compressing and deforming.