Zan Emerson
they/them
LaFayette, NY, USA
Zan Emerson is an artist and craftsman who graduated from Skidmore College in ’07 with a concentration in Jewelry and Metalsmithing. In addition to their primary metal work, they also enjoy the material possibilities of glass, wood, leather.
“In wares and adornments that often juxtapose sterling silver, copper, and brass, I combine forming and fabrication techniques with contemporary, improvised design as a practice in pushing form while still maintaining the highest level of function and comfort. Informed by the aesthetics and philosophies of the Arts and Crafts Movement and the Bauhaus School, my work joins the lineage of metalsmithing's past, while also bringing in my personal practice of playing with the physicality of the medium for the joy of perfecting lines by way of hammer, file, and fire.”
What does being queer mean to you in relation to your material choices? Is it something you consider?
“It is not something I consider."
"Formed silver bolo with chain", Sterling silver, copper, brass, leather, 1.75" x 1.75" metal centerpiece; 21.5" with cord, 2024Is the work queer because the maker is queer, or is it queer because the subject matter is queer?
“Neither of these statements apply to my work.”
Anything else you would like to share about this work? This can be an important part of the process, sourcing materials, or research.
“I do not plan any of my pieces ahead of time - I went into the studio one morning just wanting to weave a bolo. This was also my first true self-fabricated classic chain!"
