Hammering it Out

A bear forages for berries and grubs in a field of dense foliage.  Work on a project expresses itself similar to work that a foraging bear does.  Although the intention of that work is different, the process of searching for and finding that protected fruit is similar. 

I began a work for the 100 Hammers project and realized I was searching for the protected fruit.  In light of the inspiration behind 100 Hammers, I was looking for the strain of connection that my work would reflect.  That inspiration is the life and work of David McLaughlin

I chose hammer #91 for its various distinguishing character marks.  Some smears of dirt, paint, grease, and a rustic sheen that a well used piece of metal exhibits captured my heart.

These distinguishing marks tell me stories and they tell me no such stories at all.  One man’s scratch is another man’s stitches.  So, I’m left wanting to know the experiences of  the hammer from David’s perspective. 

I’m also moved by what initially drew me into the project and that is the life of a craftsman and artist, who values working with his hands to give life to objects that would have otherwise been melted down or destroyed.  Like David, my grandfather exhibited the same value in his life and work.

Since I also find great interest in utilizing objects to take on different meaning and function.  I’m inspired to reflect the wear and tear that David and the hammer experienced together.  So, with a little bit of hammering, I will produce the fruit.