The items above are examples of past and current work. All were made in the style of contemporary Italian Filigree, an ancient traditional jewelry technique. It begins with very thin fine silver wire (99.9% pure silver) which is twisted, woven, and intertwined within fine silver structures. Specialized tools and multiple courses of silver soldering are required in the making. Pieces created in this method are especially light, airy, and comfortable to wear.
Metal is my passion, with serendipitous adventures in many other mediums. I work primarily in either fine or sterling silver, and occasionally copper and bronze. The application of technical skills and problem-solving is satisfying, and artmaking gives an opportunity to explore infinite choices and challenges.
Dorothy is a founding member of The Art Shop in addition to being a studio artist and art educator, grades K-Adult, with postgraduate studies in art. Creative, collaborative, and enthusiastic, selected career highlights include: Fulbright-Hays/U of M Group Award; History Channel’s Save Our History Grant Project Director, Milford, MI; National Tech Prep Conference and MI Art Education Association State Conference presenter, USDE Reinventing High Schools/Smaller Learning Communities Delegate; and numerous partnerships. She currently resides In the Grand Rapids area, enjoying creative pursuits, genealogy, horseback riding, and various volunteer activities.