David Brand and Sandra Picciano-Brand:
We create one-of-a-kind pieces in sterling silver, bronze, pearls, druzies, opals, as well as bronze vessels and containers. We are open by appointment, and every First Friday and Third Sunday along with the many other studios in The Front Street Complex. We offer jewelry and lost wax casting classes and workshops in our studio, and at various art centers. Th
e techniques we employ, and teach are:
Lost wax casting, in which an original model is intricately carved or formed with various types of wax, then imbedded into a plaster-like material. The wax is burned away (lost) in a kiln leaving a space into which the metal is poured. We cast our own pieces either by centrifuge or vacuum casting. After the metal cools, the plaster is broken away. Silversmithing techniques of sawing, filing, soldering, riveting, stone cutting, stone setting, forging and hollow forming. Other metal fabrication approaches, such as hydraulic press forming and the ancient techniques of reticulation, granulation, and Kum Boo. Finishing techniques: The objects are polished, or given a patina by means of chemicals, dyes, or heat. Some pieces incorporate enamels, which are created with powdered glass fired onto metal.
