I am thrilled to be in my own design studio again. I belong in a space with tools in my hands and surrounded by the vibrations of music. Here I am free.

A passion for engineering developed while I was working in a glass studio for 10 years. I love the precision of CNC machining and the mechanics of how objects and machines operate. Here I gained a true appreciation and understanding for mathematics. The patterns I created in CAD programs were similar to the naturally occurring patterns in nature. I began to see the equations not only in objects but also outdoors and in the music I listened to. I was fascinated. While working at the studio, I successfully sold my original designs in shops and galleries internationally and across the US. My experience while there was an invaluable education beyond the degree in business I had earned.

The world is ever changing and after 6 years of managing my own handcraft gallery, I am excited to be back in my studio amongst my tools. After metal smithing, sign writing and other artistic ventures, copper is my current medium of choice. I find the unexpected results of patinas on copper intriguing and reminiscent of another subject I am fascinated by - the space beyond planet earth. I am intrigued by the textures and colors of distant galaxies which I find strikingly similar to the patinas I create on copper.

Being conscience of my own impact on the planet inspired my copper wire collection. This collection features work created with electrical wire from local building renovations. I welcomed the challenge of working with a new material which can be limiting at times. I make a conscious effort to use materials which are up cycled or recycled to create work which in turn can continue the process of being reborn. A copper galaxy is made entirely of copper including the copper sheet, the hangers, the feet and the hanging wire. The entire piece is recyclable.

I look forward to seeing how these current collections evolve and how I too evolve in the process.

Rachel K DeLong