Each vessel I create is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, crafted using direct metal techniques in copper and steel. 'Raising' is the term used to describe the process of forming 3-D shapes, such as seamless bowls. This ancient art form begins with a flat sheet of metal, typically copper, which is hand-hammered over a series of bottom stakes until it takes on the desired bowl shape. This labor-intensive process involves alternating between heating to anneal or soften the metal and repetitive hammering to achieve the desired form. Patinas are then applied to create colors and contrasts, enhancing the vessel's form and adding a unique quality to each piece.