A love of the Maine coast, morning light, the meeting of metal and hammer, and finding the perfect stone... In our new ‘Art in the Barn' series, we interview artists to gain insight that goes beyond process and gets to the root of inspiration.
The Good Supply host Catherine McLetchie sat down recently with metalsmiths Christine Peters of Christine Peters Jewelry and Anita Roelz of Circle Stone Designs to have a conversation about their friendship, the state of Maine, and how they continue to better their craft.
Styles varying from polished, delicate flowers to bold, textured shapes, and light silver chain to leather cord... Christine and Anita may have differing aesthetics; however their approach is very much the same. The metal of choice, finding the perfect stone, and letting the tools lead guide both artists in their processes.
While Christine occasionally starts a piece by sketching and formulating a plan, both find that materials are the best guides.
Christine came to jewelry design in her early twenties after studying sculpture. While self taught she found working with fine metals “just clicked”. Her designs are simple and elegant, layering on imagery she collects on morning walks and living in Maine. Delicate silver flowers or bold stones circled by gold baubles, Christine's work is playful and elegant. Her confidence in exploration creates a beautiful, evolving body of work.
Anita is moved by her hammers. A collector of antiques for years, she creates unique textures with hammers that have been used for decades. Some have been altered to her specifications by a bladesmith to hold patterns of her design. Honoring the history of her tools, Anita creates pieces that are both primitive and contemporary. They command to be reckoned with, invoking a sense of sacredness.
At the center of their relationship as professionals is a bond grown stronger through mentorship. Christine has helped guide Anita’s growth as a metalsmith and in turn the two have formulated a wonderful friendship. Having another creative to bounce ideas off strengthens both of their work. The limits are lessened and permission to play and explore is granted. In developing their independent styles while leading the cheering section for the other, they are truly stronger together.
