Member Spotlight

“When one can complete each day knowing that the work done will impact someone’s life in a meaningful way, it is easy to put in the time and effort…always.” That is the life, work and artistic philosophy that guides Lori’s work every day.

“When one can complete each day knowing that the work done will impact someone’s life in a meaningful way, it is easy to put in the time and effort…always.” That is the life, work and artistic philosophy that guides Lori’s work every day.

Exposure to a creative environment during my upbringing, led to my decision to study graphic design in college. I managed to make it to my senior year, while working 50-60 hours a week as a graphic designer. This made it very difficult for me to attend evening classes to complete my degree, so I walked away from college during my senior year.

Marriage, a family and full time work in event coordination for non-profit organizations kept me busy for many years. I still craved the need to work with my hands. In my spare time I painted. I have been creating jewelry in some form or another for 30 years, playing first with beaded jewelry, but soon finding that I needed the ability to create components and beads that no one else had. So I began by taking metalsmithing lessons at Fritz Willis almost 25 years ago. As I took more metal working classes at local studios I found my creative voice getting stronger and more insistent, so I found my way back to college at the age of 50 to study metalsmithing.

I received my BFA in metals and graphic design from Wayne State University. My favorite class ever was at Wayne State - Metals with MSG’s own Katie MacDonald. Katie was also my favorite teacher for 3D Studio. I have also enjoyed classes with Mary Kernahan, Lesley DiPiazza, Michael Nashef.

I would have to say that sand casting, especially with crystals and stones in place, is one of my favorite techniques. I love the immediate and serendipitous results, and the anticipation of seeing the final piece and how wonderfully it survived the heat of casting.

Metal can be hard and unrelenting, yet with fire, it becomes malleable and transformative. The journey the metal takes through multiple processes intrigues me. Working with recyclable and scrap items often finds a presence in my practice. I enjoy working in the moment, letting intuition lead, using a number of different mediums and experimenting in color and texture, letting the materials guide me in the creative process. The ability to choose any material to create a piece of art that someone could wear is a huge invitation to a big world of possibilities.

My favorite piece(s) so far are the wedding bands for my oldest son’s wedding. I did have a special mentor during this process so I didn’t mess up the gold! I also have a favorite series of cast rings made during the metals class at Wayne with Katie.”

Lori has been a member of MSG since 2011 and served two terms as Vice President.

Her work is currently available at Mod Market in Northville, and through Instagram and Facebook profiles for commission work.

“The Guild has been a great place to meet and learn from other metal artists. Such great organization to be part of!”