Health & Fitness
NVOS enamel jewelry artist, Cathy Hazel
By NVOS artist Cathy Hazel
I became interested in enameling following many years of ceramic work. I loved the glaze component in ceramics, the brilliance of the color, and the versatility of the techniques. It’s no surprise that I was drawn to enameling, as the surface decoration process is similar; but enamel is glass that is fused to a surface.
The big differences are in the surface itself – clay versus metal – and in the amount of time the process takes. Firing ceramics is an overnight production; enamels are fused to metal in less than 2 minutes. Let’s just say my sense of deferred gratification is underdeveloped…. I also love the notion of wearable art.
And what exactly is enamel?
Enamel is colored glass, crushed to a fine, sand-like consistency which is then fused onto a metal surface in a small kiln. It may be transparent, opaque or translucent when fired. It can be applied to gold, silver, copper, aluminum, stainless steel, cast iron or hot rolled steel. It is often used on steel for practical purposes, such as baths, cookers and architectural cladding. On precious metals it is used for its decorative qualities, most notably its brilliance and color.
During Napa Valley Open Studios, you can find Cathy in her Napa studio, at Studio #4, 1949 Laurel Street, in Napa, California.