date. 2018

materials. copper with solder inlay, liver of sulfur patina  

size. 3 3/8 in x 2 in 

You may notice this piece has many flaws. The bottom of the clip has deep gouges that should have been sanded, my rivets are loose, and if you held it in your hand, you'd see the "claws" of the clip should have been forged a little tighter . This was the very first piece I created with metal. I enjoy looking back at it and appreciate my growth and the ability  to be able to identify what can be improved, because, the minute I finished it, I believed it to be beautiful and flawless. The more I learn the more I can identify my flaws. As a future art teacher, I always want my students to be able to be critical of themselves and identify room to grow, but also to celebrate their accomplishments, and feel proud of their hard work, and creativity. I don't think I would change/correct this piece. I'd much rather re-create it and fix everything that isn't great in this one, then compare the two.