Artist’s Statement

During my early childhood in Santa Anita, Jalisco, Mexico, I learned a lot about art through the intricate needlework from the women in my family. My father was a migrant worker in the US, and even though he objected to my involvement with ‘women’s work’, I was able to learn their skills during his long absences. I also loved art in school. My own emigration to the US at age eleven lead to the loss of my family, culture, and language. I focused on art as a way of communicating my thoughts and feelings.

I discovered metal work at Cabrillo College in Aptos, California, where Lynda Watson and Marcia Lewis were teaching in the Jewelry department. This is where I fell in love with Metal Work. I continued my career in Metal Work at San Diego State University with Arline Fisch and Helen Shirk. In Metal Work I found my way of bringing different elements together. I combine the softness and liveliness of natural images, textures, and feelings, with precise craftsmanship through casting, fabrication, and hammering techniques.

My world travels inspire me to integrate nature and architecture in my work. As a teacher, I love to pass on my passion for Metal Arts, my experience, and my skills to my students. Through Metal Art I feel a connection that knows no borders or language gaps. Metal Art is my access to the World Soul.

Jose Santana

Metalsmith, Enamellist