The Naja is pleased to announce that our first artist to be showcased in 2016 is local Denver artist, Cheyenne Hughes. Not only is Cheyenne an amazing jewelry artist – he is currently working at the Naja where we can all share his enthusiasm for jewelry making. Next time you are in please introduce yourself to Cheyenne if you don’t already know him.
When looking for artists to showcase in the Naja Art Gallery we are constantly looking for new and innovative artists to show their wares. Cheyenne was an easy pick once we checked out his web page Beast of Burden Jewelry.
“Beast of Burden Jewelry was founded in 2009 on the idea that what we wear should be more than just faceless pieces of jewelry. It should tell a story of who we are who we want to be, it should empower us to be bold and stand for what we believe in. Jewelry should last many lifetimes and carry our story on long after we are gone. Reflected in it should be the passion and soul of the artist so that it may inspire and motivate us to reach our dreams and keep dreaming. It shouldn’t be about a logo or a brand, nor should it be made from suffering and sold in mass. Beast of Burden is for the rebels, the seekers, the protectors, the lovers, the artists, and most of all the dreamers.”
Cheyenne’s work is edgy, daring, aesthetically pleasing and very much one of a kind. The term Uniquely Unruly comes to mind.
Follows is an interview between Cheyenne and the Naja regarding his current work and what direction he is going design wise.
- What got you into working with metal?
As a young boy, between the ages of 8 and 9, my mom worked next door to a bead shop. I used to love hanging out in the bead shop and took a few classes. I quickly found out that I wanted to make all the pieces and not just assemble pieces together. I was fascinated by how the pieces were made and put together. Sometimes I’d trade cleaning for lessons. Not a bad trade for a kid!
- How long have you been making jewelry?
I stopped making pieces as I grew older and started to work professionally in non-profit groups. After nearly a decade I realized I was over-worked, stressed out and worst of all – dissilusied with the work world. I decided to reenergize my jewelry making. I interned with Ira Sherman and worked for John Sholl at JF Sholl Fine Jewelry as a bench jeweler.
- What techniques or process do you prefer? Why?
I like casting, but fabricating is my favorite. If I have the time I even enjoy making my own sterling or metal sheet. I like to make hinges and I enjoy having motion or things that move in my pieces.
- How would you describe your style/makings?
At this point my style is all over the place. I haven’t 100% nailed down a “style” as my work, design astictics, etc. is still evolving. I think you could call my work edgy, with an almost dangerous look.
- Do you have a new skill or technique you would like to learn/implement?
I’m looking into incorporating Damascus into my pieces.
- What is your favorite or most used tool?
Hands Down – the torch! I use the same torch for everything. It’s an old welding torch I’ve had for a long time.
- What is your current/next project?
I’ve been thinking about a Damascus bracelet with flush sets stones. I plan on using up to 5 – 6 ounces of metals.
- If there is any part of your craft that you could share with others, what would it be?
Flush setting. I had a hard time in the beginning with this skill and feel good when I can help others learn it. It isn’t quite as hard as you think. When I was working at JF Sholl Fine Jewelry as a bench jeweler, owner John Sholl showed me how to flush set stones and he tested me on it. It was a good lesson and I like to share the knowledge.
- Who and/or what have inspired your work?
Who: I have been very fortunate to learn under two amazing metalsmiths, they are without a doubt my biggest inspirations. I’ve spent the majority of my time as a metalsmith interning under internationally known metalsmith, Ira Sherman. I was also lucky enough to work for master jeweler, John Sholl as a bench jeweler for a period of time. Between the two of them I’ve learned everything I know from design/aesthetics to technique/craftsmanship. I hope my pieces reflects these things and my drive to do my best work is always in an effort to honor them.
What: I love stories – all kinds of stories. I like folk tales, astrology, mythology and anima. Stories teach us how to be.
Cheyenne’s work will be on display January 11, 2016 – February 7, 2016
Make sure to join us for the Artist Reception & Demonstration Saturday, January 16, 2016
Demo: 1:30 – 2:30 Reception: 2:30 – 3:30
The Naja Tool & Supply, Inc. 