An Interview with Barbara Lewis...

Barbara Lewis Interview

·     Andrew Thornton: How did you get started in torch fired enameled jewelry? 

Barbara Lewis:  I took a workshop with Joe Spencer, creator of Multi-Torch Fired Enamel and things started to click.  I applied my ceramics education and knowledge gained from 20 years experience with firing gas kilns to adjustments in the flame. Who could imagine that white enamel would be my BFF! Simple torch adjustments create the most astoundingly beautiful results!

·      AT:  Why did you get started in torch fired enameled jewelry? 

BL:  While recovering from two rotator cuff surgeries as a result of loading heavy kiln shelves, I began the intimate task of making jewelry, first using my ceramic beads and then my enamel ones.  I took a lampworking class during this recovery period.  Enamel seemed a natural progression for an artist attracted to the flame!

·      AT:  How have your other interests/hobbies/career influenced your jewelry designs? 

BL:  I began sewing at the age of 12 and started college as an apparel design major.  My desire to make as many of the beads and components for my jewelry as possible stems from this original creative urge to make the dresses I visualized.  Now I integrate fabrics and fibers into my jewelry designs. I encourage jewelry artists to spread their wings and not be captive to what’s available at the store.

·      AT:  What inspires you? 

BL:  Because I love color, enamel is a natural fit.  It’s all about color!  In college I studied color theory and some would say that they are attracted to my work because of my use of color.  I have always enjoyed introducing the offbeat … a little bit of unexpected color that might make you say, “I would never have thought to use that!”

·      AT:  What makes your work unique from everyone else’s? 

BL:  I work spontaneously from the things around me. I get a thrill from incorporating seemingly disparate objects into a single piece of jewelry.  My “Bench Collection” necklaces are a snapshot of what’s on my worktable at any given moment.  I love this type of challenge.

·      AT:  Who’s work, glass or otherwise, do you most admire? 

BL:  I love the work of Mark Rothko and the Color Field painters.  Enamel artists I admire would include Deb Lozier, Jan Smith, and Jan Harrell.  I love their use of color and texture.

·      AT:  What advice would you give other artists? Stay true to your aesthetic. 

BL:  Your work will remain original and inspired.  Connections will be easy … things will feel right.  When you find yourself straying from your path, bring yourself back … you may need to limit visual stimuli until you get there.

·      AT:  Are there any other sources of inspiration you’d like to mention? 

 BL:  When I was just getting started on my degree in ceramics, I mentioned to one of my professors at the Corcoran School of Art that I questioned whether I had talent or not.  He said, “Talent is the need to create.”  I found his statement so freeing.  Later I came across this quote by Martha Graham, Founder of modern dance …

“There is a force, an energy, a quickness, that is translated through you into action.  If you block it, the world will not have it.  You do not have to believe in yourself or your work.  It is not your business to compare yourself with others.  It is your business to keep open and aware directly to the urges that motivate you, to keep the channel open.”

   I invite you to join me at www.paintingwithfire.ning.com, where it’s all about torch firing.  It’s a great place to go with questions, to network, and get inspired.  We also have a weekly chat on Thursday evenings at 9 p.m. Eastern time.

website for supplies and jewelry: www.paintingwithfireartwear.com

book website: www.torchfiredenameljewelry.com

blog: www.paintingwithfireartwear.blogspot.com