Mary Kernahan

My path to being a metalsmith has been a nontraditional one, and an all too true example of “life is what happens while you’re making other plans”. From my earliest metal working experiences in high school, it was always my intent to return to it as an artistic endeavor, but that goal remained unrealized until years later. After careers in nursing and medical informatics, a single class led to a renewed fascination with metal work. Eager to learn more, I began to pursue it in earnest by enrolling at a local studio. There I was immersed in all aspects of metalsmithing, laying the foundation for many further studies with private tutors and in numerous independent workshops and master classes.

I believe in simple elegance, classic lines, and timeless designs, and handcraft all my designs in sterling silver using traditional metalsmithing techniques. I strive to bring a contemporary feel to ancient techniques as is seen in my riveted and filigree pieces.

I create to bring my artistic life full circle. I come from creative people with a heritage of strong folk art traditions. I grew up in a family of makers. With each piece I create pay homage to that heritage while being reminded of how fortunate I am to work in a medium that infuses each day with a desire to create and learn more.