MARY ELLEN O'CONNOR - Fine Art Metalsmith
Metalsmith Mary Ellen O’Connor makes unique works in 24k gold on polished copper. Following her passion for animals, nature, and wildlife her works exude a calm elegance influenced by Asian design and esthetics.
After applying the gold leaf design a process of heat treating the copper allows her to create iridescent color patterns, further enhancing the gold image.
O’Connor holds a BFA in metal-smithing from the School for American Crafts, which allowed her to combine her knowledge of smithing with her passion for wildlife.
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Hammered Copper Earrings with 23k Gold Designs
Sterling Silver with resin inlay Jewelry
Heron Cuff Bracelet
sterling silver with resin inlay
Poppy Cuff Bracelet
sterling silver with resin inlay
Owl Cuff Bracelet
sterling silver with resin inlay
"When I first started this line of work, I knew I wanted to use color in my designs," O'Connor said. "In searching for a material to use in jewelry, belt buckles, boxes and knife handles that would be both tough and beautiful, I started to experiment with epoxy resin inlays. This material has continued to allow me to “paint” into my metal designs."
Eagle Treasure Box - brass with resin inlay
Mountain Treasure Box - brass with resin inlay
After working out the design, O'Connor uses a jeweler's saw to pierce her design into a sheet of metal. Once the design is cut and refined, she solders a backplate onto it. This creates a recessed area that will hold the resins. After adding findings to the piece, she starts the inlay process, mixing the various colors that will be used. After the inlays have cured, she sands and finishes the surface before finally polishing the piece.
Pendants
Dragonfly Pendant
sterling silver with resin inlay
Barn Owl Pendant
sterling silver with resin inlay