JCCFS: Tell us a little bit about yourself. What’s your background in your medium? How did you get started?

CH: I’m an enamelist and metalsmith with an MFA in Metal Design from East Carolina University. A member of the Southern Highland Craft Guild and often teach jewelry and enameling classes at the Folk School and other craft schools. Before becoming a full-time artist and metalsmith, I worked as a biological surveyor and as a U.S. Forest Service botanist where I nurtured my love of the natural world. My deeply ingrained love for flora and fauna inspire every piece of my work which showcases overlooked insects and their brilliant anatomical patterns.

JCCFS: Tell us more about your class’s specific technique or process.

CH: Explore the colorful art of painting natural forms in enamel using powdered glass and copper. Learn simple transfer techniques to create exquisitely detailed images of leaves, insects, landscapes, and more even if you have never drawn or painted anything. This class is suitable for both beginners with zero experience and those with previous experience. We will explore all that enamel has to offer, including pigments, stencils, silver foil, and more!

JCCFS: What can students expect to leave your class with?

CH: You get to choose what you make. Possibilities include ornaments, jewelry, and objects for the home (such as enameled bowls, switch plate covers, and more!)

JCCFS: What is your favorite aspect of the John C. Campbell Folk School?

CH: Friends (old and new)
Good food (without having to wash dishes)
Peaceful scenery/being surrounded by nature

JCCFS: Where do you draw inspiration from for your work?

CH: I have always been interested in plants-especially the tiny herbaceous plants that most people overlook. When you take the time to get down low and really observe small things, you can’t help but seeing even more. Observation is important for both art and science. Taking the time to observe and reflect improves well-being.

JCCFS: What’s one piece or craft object you’ve made recently that you are proud of, and why? 

CH: Lacebug (a plique a jour enamel and silver brooch with moveable parts). I don’t normally work with this technique, but enjoyed the process, which requires one to slow down and pay attention to small details.

JCCFS: What tips would you give a student or aspiring craftsperson? Anything you wish you had known earlier in your career?

CH: Keep making!