It’s not the most outlandish need so I’m not totally sure why it’s been such a slog— I’ve been trying to find someone to help me create some cool metal embellishments to finish a commission of three stained glass lamps. My metal working skills are somewhat basic so in order to create what I’m envisioning, I needed to find someone who has much finer skills and access to special tools. Over the past three months, I have contacted at least 15 metal workers and struck out with each for one reason or another. So I am really happy to share that I just booked studio time and private lessons at The Center for Metal Art in Johnstown, PA. It’s almost 5 hours from my studio, a bit further than I wanted to go. But it’s housed inside a historic blacksmith shop built in 1864, they offer everything I could possibly need (and much more!) and the staff seems super knowledgeable and friendly; I think it will be a great opportunity. Often, at the start of a project, I have a pretty clear idea how long it will take and how the evolution will progress but not so in this case. Thankfully, I have a patient client! I’ll post photos while I’m there and of course some final shots of the lamps once they are complete.