About the Artist
I’m Wendy McManus, jewelry artist and the driving force behind Big World Studio. My work in clay media began in 2005, when I discovered polymer clay. I instantly fell in love with the versatile material and I joyfully dove into experimenting with different techniques and perfecting my skills. Soon after joining the online polymer clay community, I learned about metal clay and I knew I needed to try this exciting new material. In the summer of 2009 I was able to take a week-long course in metal clay with a master instructor, which provided a solid foundation upon which to build my skills. I’ve since studied with many of the most highly regarded metal clay teachers in the world. It would not be an exaggeration to say that I’m obsessed with creating in metal clay. This material has changed my life.
In an effort to help educate others about the possibilities presented by metal clay, I started Metal Clay Magic, a blog where I showcase metal clay art and the talented artists working in this medium.
In addition to creating art jewelry, I’m the Director of Marketing for the National Mango Board, where I work to promote mango consumption throughout the U.S.
About the Art
[SinglePic not found]This form of modern alchemy is truly magical. The material consists of micron-sized metal particles suspended in an organic binder and a bit of water. It begins in a soft, workable state, like a clay or putty. In this form it can be shaped, molded, textured, cut and otherwise transformed. Once dried to a “greenware” state, the still fragile clay can be drilled, sanded, carved and further refined. Once satisfied, the artist fires the piece in a kiln to a toasty 1650 degrees, which burns off the binder, fuses the metal particles together, and results in a strong, solid piece of metal. My metal clays of choice are fine silver (99.9% silver), copper and bronze.