Metalsmith BenchTalk with Judy Hoch

On the February 18th program I am delighted to chat with the exceptionally talented metalsmith Judy Hoch, see: http://www.marstal.com/index.cfm. Hoch describes herself as a second-generation American–Dane, and a preacher’s kid, born in Nebraska and attended school in Brush Colorado. As a Boettcher Scholar, Hoch graduated from the University of Colorado with a degree in mathematics. She had a successful career in the computer (senior engineer – IBM) and financial business (director – US West) for 27 years. In the corporate world, Hoch had a bit of extra money and spent it on custom-made jewelry. Fascinated with the gemstones, and at her jeweler’s suggestion, Hoch began to study gemology. Hoch's primary education in metal-smithing was at Arapahoe Community College studying under Richard Sweetman. In addition, she's taken workshops from masters such as Lee Marshall, Phil Poirier, Thomas Mann, Richard Messina, Jerry McClure, Carol Webb and Michael Boyd. All wonderful teachers who enthusiastically shared their expertise and passion for metalworking. Hoch teaches to pay back the pool of expertise so generously shared. She is a Graduate Gemologist of the Gemological Institute of America, Carlsbad, California. Her tools range from the traditional goldsmith’s hammer to a big hydraulic press. She loves the results of heat on precious metal – the textures and colors. Hoch's techniques include fusing, soldering, raising, chasing, hand engraving, reticulating, etching and embossing. Her materials are sterling silver, 14K, 18K, 22K and 24K gold, 18K/sterling bimetal, 22K/sterling bimetal, mokume gane – a Japanese style wood grain metal, and reticulated silver. Hoch uses gemstones in many ways – as brilliant accents, large focal points and in their natural unpolished beauty. Please join us for what will be a very informative and fun conversation.