bergfam(at)yellville.net
870.404.5702
PO Box 215
Yellville, Arkansas 72687

Goldenrod

Handrafted jewelry and functional hair adornments that work

Artist Statement for Patricia Bergman

I work with wire and sheet metal and fabricate and transformed it using traditional hand tools.

The metals used include sterling silver, copper, brass, and nickel silver. I begin by first making sure the metal is thoroughly clean. Using the metal as my pallet, I draw images and designs using an oil-based pen. The metal is immersed in an acid solution that eats into the metal, allowing the drawing to remain. The creative process continues as I cut, saw, and combine metals. I also solder and use rivets made by me. I do purchase stones, beads, and chain that is incorporated into my work with other handmade pieces added to the chain.

To give it a finished look involves a lot of filing and sanding. This is accomplished with the use of hammers, needle-nose and round-nose pliers, an anvil, punches, shears, and a flexible shaft. Lastly, this piece is given a patina using a chemical solution and protective coating.

Designing allows me to share my heart. I remain the sole designer from beginning to end as a piece is completed. At the same time, my husband and son are invaluable to me in many aspects of the business, including hands-on involvement as a piece is made.

As I call myself a metalsmith, I must confess, this would not have been my chosen medium forty years ago. But, through six months exposure as an apprentice, I then realized the endless possibilities of transforming a piece of metal. I’m so glad I was given this opportunity. It’s been a wonderful life.