Mary B. Mason

Mary B. Mason

This body of work was created during fall. I selected the categories of FISHING, TREES, and PRIMARY COLORS for the East of East Street Show. The Ancient Chinese Raku enameling technique was used on the metal by burning leaves to give a creek or stream effect. Natural stones and fibers where used to enhance the enameled leaves in the next grouping. Elementary art and the beginning of school inspired the whimsical primary color group.

One-of-a-kind enamel jewelry is my media. Enameling is the art of fusing/painting layers of glass to metal, then firing it with a torch or in a kiln. There are many elements and processes in each unique design. Skills in enameling and metalsmithing are required. A variety of tools are used to set, chaise, file, saw, polish and solder each creation to completion. Final presentation materials often incorporated in each pendant necklace, ring, earrings or bracelet are; copper, sterling silver, brass, natural and found objects, Swarovski crystals, natural stone, gems, fossils and fibers.

The foundation of Mary B. Mason’s art experience is built upon twenty-five years of creating and teaching art in public and private schools in all grade levels in four states. I moved to the Pittsburgh area from Baton Rouge, Louisiana and recently retired from teaching art in the Seneca Valley School District. Currently I am actively an exhibiting member of the Associated Artists of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh Society of Artists, Associated Artists of Butler, Beaver County Artists and the new Cranberry Artist Network. Visit each of their websites or like me on Facebook. The Hoyt Fine Arts Museum gift shop in New Castle and the Appalachian Rock Shop in Harmony also display my jewelry.

artz@zoominternet.net