Barbara Hance

Barbara Hançe is a local artist who has been creating fine silver jewelry from metal clay since 2004. After retiring from a 30-year career in the baking industry Barbara began to look for a new creative outlet. After taking several jewelry design classes one of her instructors suggested she try a new silver material, metal clay. A ring class was being offered the following week; Barbara thought it would be a good opportunity to give this new medium a try. During the class she discovered the magic of metal clay. Watching the ring she designed from the clay like material, then fired in a kiln and transform into pure silver, she realized she needed to learn more about this amazing medium.

Metal clay consists of tiny particles of fine silver, suspended in an organic binder giving it a clay like structure. It can be textured, molded, carved and sculped allowing endless creativity by the artist.

Barbara takes her inspiration for her jewelry designs from the Modernists artists of the 1930's through 1960. She especially loves the elegance of the 1930's and 40's. The sleek jewelry designs were bold and had unexpected shapes that complimented the simple line and beautiful drape of the women's fashion during those two decades.

Barbara's jewelry is created with fine silver and semi-precious stones. Fused glass cabochons and the enameling process offer more ways to add color to her pieces. As Barbara creates, she envisions the woman who loves to accessorize a casual outfit with a splash of quiet elegance, or add sparkle for just the right touch to complete an outfit for a special occasion. Each piece is one of a kind, made to be worn, enjoyed and last for generations.

Her work has been featured in craft and guild magazine articles, galleries and exhibits as well as on her website.