Ben & Lael, Inc.

I love forming metal. Copper feels like a suspended liquid as Im working it, as if its flowing and wants to work with me to take on whatever shape I envision. The incomparable beauty of the natural world and my love of nature is a perennial focus of my art. Sometimes I begin with the classical proportions and forms of the historic American silver that surrounded me growing up, other pieces begin with an idea rather than a fully formed picture and I feel it out as I work the metal. This allows opportunities to arise that I didnt anticipate; serendipity takes over, leading me on an exciting, unplanned journey. I use traditional hand metalsmithing techniques with traditional tools, but also tools of my own design. I also use age-old scrimshaw techniques to embellish the antler. All of my materials, the purest available copper, silver and naturally-shed antler, are sourced in the USA to create each one-of-a kind piece in my Nashville studio. While I continue to create my own work and attend shows I also feel a responsibility to share the art of metalsmithing so I make time to pass along my love of craft to students. I teach classes locally, give demonstrations, and take on interns and apprentices. Some are curious about how I create my pieces and some will go on to use these skills in their own work but all walk away with an appreciation for the art itself.