Anna Gallo
she/her
Middletown, CT, USA
Anna Gallo is a Connecticut-based metalsmith who enjoys the challenge of geometric work and the surprise of organic forms in equal measure. She’s been studying smithing at Wesleyan Potters in Middletown, CT for over three years and loves the community it’s brought her as much as the craft. You can view more of her work on Instagram @skunkpaw.
“My work spans a range of styles and aesthetics, though I am particularly drawn to geometric forms, mirror finishes, folds, and physical textures. I work primarily in sterling silver sheet and wire and enjoy how communicative the medium is during the crafting process. I’m a bit of a chameleon in a lot of regards and feel my work reflects that; no matter what my vibe is on a given day, I have pieces to suit.”
"O-ring", sterling silver, 2024How does your work relate to the theme connection?
“The O-ring ring connotes the ways in which connection becomes attachment; the green rosarita ring depicts how beauty emerges when the right forces converge; and the reticulated ring, which uses gold over the solder seam, celebrates connection as its focal point."
"Reticulated ring", sterling silver and gold, 2023“My work embodies connection both thematically and because it is produced in community. Each piece is ideated, troubleshooted, refined, and celebrated by my little village. I came to the hobby after the height of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, feeling very much like I needed to do something tactile with other humans. At the completion of every piece, I feel as though it’s something we’ve done together.."
What role does connection play in your creative process?
"Rosarita ring", sterling silver and rosarita, 2023What connection(s) does your queerness make to the world around you?
“My queerness is a gift and beautiful point of reference in my life; so many of my dearest bonds were forged from common ground in that regard. As I continued to age in the comfort of my identity, I treasure my community and sense of connection, both spoken and unspoken, wherever I go."