One of my resolutions for 2015, is to learn new techniques and try different mediums. I've been exploring basic jewelry-making methods for the past five years, so I feel its time to add new skills to enrich my work.
In my research, I found that the Geology museum in Mexico City offers lapidary –or stonecutting– classes. As I arrived, I was amazed by the beautiful Santa María de la Ribera neighborhood, and by the museum's extraordinary building.
The structure was built in the late 1800's, during the presidency of Porfirio Díaz, who decided to break away from Spanish colonial style and modernize the city. The facade is made of carved volcanic rock, and the building combines French and pre-hispanic motifs.
Mexico City offers a variety of small rustic workshops where you can learn skills inexpensively. They are sponsored either by universities or by the government, and they have an eclectic mix of students from all parts of town. I've learnt ceramics and jewelry techniques in such workshops, and I enjoy the guild-like environment. These studios are focused mostly on techniques and not on creativity, but I have found that I prefer to develop my creative ideas alone.
I will be sharing my progress as I learn to cut and carve gemstones, which I plan to add to my jewelry.
In my research, I found that the Geology museum in Mexico City offers lapidary –or stonecutting– classes. As I arrived, I was amazed by the beautiful Santa María de la Ribera neighborhood, and by the museum's extraordinary building.
The structure was built in the late 1800's, during the presidency of Porfirio Díaz, who decided to break away from Spanish colonial style and modernize the city. The facade is made of carved volcanic rock, and the building combines French and pre-hispanic motifs.
Mexico City offers a variety of small rustic workshops where you can learn skills inexpensively. They are sponsored either by universities or by the government, and they have an eclectic mix of students from all parts of town. I've learnt ceramics and jewelry techniques in such workshops, and I enjoy the guild-like environment. These studios are focused mostly on techniques and not on creativity, but I have found that I prefer to develop my creative ideas alone.
I will be sharing my progress as I learn to cut and carve gemstones, which I plan to add to my jewelry.
