About the Artist

Most people need a way of distracting and expressing themselves at the same time. Art is my therapy. When I am creating, the whole world goes away and I am absorbed into the art.

All wire has subtle differences and characteristics. So, because all of my work is created freehand using a cold-connection process, it’s important to pay attention to how the wire wants to be formed. I call it “listening to the wire”. Forcing the wire is like forcing people…eventually they snap.

I’ve been collecting rocks since I was six and I still pick out each stone individually and frame it into the wire. I work to show off the stones instead of covering them up. For wire I use black steel, copper, sterling silver and gold-fill so that the color will not chip or wear off. The stones I pick have to inspire me because I paint with stones. The stones are my canvas, the wire is paint and the pliers are my brushes.

I learned wire sculpture by doing it. I started making and fixing jewelry when I was nine years old. I enjoyed working with beaded and costume jewelry. But, at that time, classes in wire sculpture were not available, so I looked at pictures, read old books on wire art and experimented. Now I enjoy teaching others this art form.

My business really got started in 1996. I began suffering from severe back pain and was placed on complete bed rest. In 1997 I was told that my condition would have ups and downs, but would never go away completely. With this condition it is difficult to keep a regular schedule. I find this work relaxing and it allows me a creative outlet.

If you have any specific questions, feel free to email me at aileen@aileensart.com .

Sincerely,

About the Artist

Aileen