About the Artist

I’m Wendy McManus, jewelry artist and the driving force behind Big World Studio.  When I discovered polymer clay in 2005, 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 introductory course in metal clay with a master instructor. What a great way to start!  It would not be an exaggeration to say that I’ve been obsessed with creating in metal clay since taking that class.  It truly was a turning point.

In addition to creating art jewelry and gift items, I’m the Director of Marketing for the National Mango Board, where I work to promote mango consumption throughout the U.S.

About the Metal Clay Art

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 at this time are fine silver (99.5% silver) and pure copper.  I hope to start experimenting with bronze very soon.

My metal clay art tends to be an exploration of textures.  I’m particularly drawn to organic shapes and textures, which I often capture myself in silicon molding compound for a one-of-a-kind approach.

About the Polymer Clay Art

Polymer clay is a low-fire modeling clay that can be cured in a home oven. It can be manipulated to imitate glass, wood, metal, stone and more. Most often, it looks like nothing else you’ve ever seen before!

My creations emerge from blocks of clay through a process of ongoing experimentation and discovery. This versatile medium encourages the interplay of color, pattern, shape and texture in infinite combinations. The opportunity to launch a new idea, play with it, expand on it, perfect it and change it until it becomes something new again inspires my creative process.

While my polymer clay artwork takes many shapes and forms, you may notice a signature look which features the tiny layered leaves that grace my fan pulls, dragons’ wings and other pieces.  I’m drawn to the intricate texture and patterns created with this technique, and my  clients seem to love it, too.