What to do? What to do?

I have worked with copper for about 20 years. In 2006, for financial reasons I had to move into my studio. A year later after trying to figure out what was wrong with me (with no help from 2 doctors) I discovered I had copper poisoning. With the help of a Natural-path, vitamins, diet, sauna, exercise and a change in work habits, I got the levels down, but nowhere near enough. Last October I decided to give up metalsmithing in order to stop the pain in my joints and muscles and to get my liver cleaned out. People ask if I miss it. The only thing I miss is the work I was doing when I quit - sensuous and funny portraits of the middle aged female form done in raised copper with rich patinas.

"Bitty Bawdies"

 What I don't miss is wearing ear, eye and lung protection, the noise, the smell of my skin after working with copper all day, or the dangerous tools and torches. I actually used to like that part of it. Now I'm trying to discover what else I'd like to do. I have been taking painting lessons, dabbling in linocuts and printmaking, writing poetry, learning to play the Ukulele & performing. I'm hoping this trip to Denmark and my subsequent trip to Europe will guide me in some way. As long as I am making art I know I will be happy. There is no way in hell that I'll get a full time job! I've been working for myself for too long. I love the idea of reinventing myself and it's not new to me. I was a Graphic Artist before I discovered metalsmithing. I can sew and make clothes - but I don't want to do that for a living, although those skills have helped me to design and make performance outfits from garbage.

Can Lid-mail

























Plastic Lid Suit with
"Pop up nipple covers"                                 

I come by my creativity and sense of humour honestly. At my mother's funeral in 2007, I found out that she was the class clown at hug-hooking school and rarely did her homework! The apple does not fall far from the tree! So for those of you who want to try something new like playing an instrument or learning to paint - GO FOR IT! It really is never too late and you will DEFINITELY discover something new about yourself.

Marie