Kimberley Morris
Artist’s Bio
Armed with a triple major – graphic design, clay and photography – Kimberley Morris set off to conquer the world. She had a hard time finding a job throwing pots, so she decided to get a job using her graphic design background. She found her niche, working at top design studios in London, Los Angeles, and Dallas.
But with the tech crash of 2000 and the events of 9/11, Morris decided that it might be time for a shift in focus— away from the computer and back to fine arts. When Kimberley returned to creating fine art, she discovered how much she had missed it and what an integral part of her life it really was. She went back to school and started taking classes in metalsmithing, incorporating her experience in design and colour. In 2007, it was time to commit full-time to her art.
Artist’s Statement
The process is the most important thing when I go into the studio. I try to push the limits of both techniques and materials. Sometimes it works. Sometimes it doesn’t. There’s something very Zen about it. New discoveries are always taking place. And at the end of the day, the result is satisfaction, and hopefully, a wearable piece of art.
Process
Materials consist of copper, silver, the occasional bit of brass, a stack of color pencils and a really good pencil sharpener.
The copper is first formed into shape. I use my hydraulic press, forging, chasing, then apply a texture followed by a chemical patina.
Color application is also a multi-step process. I fix each layer of color allowing me to build on the color. When the design is complete, another layer of fix is applied followed by a 2-3 coats of wax that seals and protects the finish.
The final pieces are constructed by riveting them together or onto a base of oxidized silver.