I create contemporary wire basketry and studio jewelry using an eclectic mix of metalsmithing, woven metal,
and crocheted wire in my work.
Sharon Stafford
I’ve always needed to make and create. I found a strong creative bond with metalsmithing in school, but opted for a design career instead. I went back to metalsmithing about 20 years ago, adding woven metal to the mix. After a few years making jewelry, I felt the need to work at a larger scale with more dimension. I took some basketry classes intending to bring those skills back into metals. Now, all these years later I am creating contemporary wire basketry and studio jewelry. I switch things up regularly – incorporating metalsmithing elements into my wire basketry work, as well as using basketry techniques in my jewelry work.
It is the textures – both visual and tactile – that draw me to metal and to weaving. The feel of metal has
always drawn me in, whether wire or sheet, smooth or textured, hammered or woven. I love watching metal flow beneath a hammer. And I enjoy seeing a sculptural basketry piece grow as I weave. I love the slow process of my basketry work – slow building. I wish I could show the process along with the finished piece, because for me it is a significant part of the whole.
Left to Right: Old Copper Pot, 2026, old copper pot, colored copper wire, colored aluminum wire. Dark Silver Dramatic Twist Earrings, sterling silver with dark patina.
I share my work at local open studio events as well as juried exhibits. Open studios are especially valuable
because they provide an opportunity for conversations about my work with a wide variety of visitors.
Left to Right: Splayed, 2025, 15” h x 11” w x 3” d, copper, steel wire, copper wire. Inseparable, 2024, 11” h x 5” w x 5” d, colored copper wire.
Learn more about Sharon Stafford on her website www.sharonstaffordmetals.com and follow her on Instagram @sharonstaffordmetals and Facebook Sharon Stafford Metals
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