Technique
Hollow forms create a sense of depth and movement, like seaweed flowing back and forth in slow motion underwater. These forms are used in much of my jewelry. Fabricated by using a grooved block of wood and my hammers or a 20-ton hydraulic press along with my own hand-cut dies, I create substantial jewelry that is lightweight and comfortable to wear.
When fabricating, I use my hammer’s narrow side in the middle of a gold or silver form against a grooved wood block. I hammer in the middle of the shape, to bring up the sides, and through my manipulation of the metal the sides move together until they are touching. I solder the seam and further shape the form, add ear wires, hinges and other necessary parts to complete the design.
Using the hydraulic press, I hand cut my own shapes out of acrylic sheet, then sandwich the metal in between the die and the press while applying pressure. The metal puffs out in the shape of my design. I hand cut, sand down, and then solder the two halves, creating a hollow form. Each form is hand filed and nearly finished before proceeding with the design.
To further suit the needs of each piece I fabricate the clasps, incorporating them directly into the design allowing function, as well as adornment. The clasps are fabricated from sheet metal in the basic form of a box, with a key that fits secured with a safety latch. Each clasp is made specific to the design; some set with stones, while other clasps take on the shapes represented in the rest of the piece. The custom hand-designed clasp brings continuity of the specific design into the function, wearability, and safety (of not losing it) of the jewelry.
Classes/Teaching
Alison Antelman teaches classes at art centers and out of the studio including; chain making for beginners, using the hydraulic press, improving your soldering skills, and custom clasps.
If you and up to four students in total are interested in learning a particular technique/s please inquire about in studio classes.