I have been quiet for a while, life can do that at times. I continue
to read Orchid and directly interact with friends made here as time
and circumstance allows. This bright sunny New Years morning, I have
a few words to share.
Orchid came into my life at a time when sharing was not usual, and
trade secrets kept close to the vest. Orchid changed that radically
and a totally new attitude amongst “smiths” appeared. We began to
exchange ideas and and even physical gatherings. First
we met in Tucson, just a handful Dave Arens arranged a place to
gather, eat, drink and socialize. This began to grow and support
grew, including Hanuman coming to the United States. That was an
“event!” Later I attended gatherings in New York and Los Angeles.
Online conversations grew into threads of wisdom, and at times
dis-agreements as well. To today Hanuman and Ton keep Orchid civil,
and threads can get large at times cumbersome. Other sites have
formed via other groups with more singular focus, some survive, and
some collapse under the disrespect of one for others. Sad but many
are calling themselves “jewelers,” that quite frankly have never
taken lesson one. Some take one lesson and claim that learned
technique their own, then feel OK copying and using the original
workshop instruction to earn money. Integrity, not really.
This morning I read Jeffrey Herman’s SAS, Society of American
Silversmith’s Forum message. There Jeff suggested reading about Jm
Miller, long an Orchid contributing member, and a man I have long
respected. I am including the link Jeff shared for those newer to
Orchid to understand the time and efforts as well as dedication it
takes to be a “Master.” Some here have sat on the bench as many
years as Jim, some have a very highly respected level of ability,
today I wish to share James Miller with those who may not yet know
of him.
http://www.ganoksin.com/gnkurl/ep811b
Hugs,
Terrie