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Joseph L. Brandom has been working with metals since 1970. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Silversmithing and Jewelry at Indiana State University in 1975, and a Master of Fine Arts in Metalsmithing at the University of Georgia. He now lives in Boca Raton, Fl where he works in his own studio. Joseph worked primarily in silver and stainless steel until 1986. He then discovered the magic of pewter and began developing new ideas and techniques for the creation of his pewter vessels and sculptures. Many of Brandom's pewter vessels are executed by hand, using hammers and steel forming stakes. The hollow forms start as a flat sheet of pewter that is hammered into shape using sinking and raising techniques. The textured surfaces are created using special hammers that he has made by carving a texture into the face of the hammer. When the metal is struck over a steel stake the impression of the carved hammer face is left on the surface of the pewter. This is done during the planishing phase, which at the same time smoothes all unwanted surface irregularities. Different textures are achieved using the same hammer by controlling where the hammer strikes. After the vessels are formed and planished, they are finished by hand using sand paper, steel wool, steel brushes, and polish. Using a buffing machine and buffing compounds would wear away the detail of the textured surfaces. Some of Joseph's vessels, bowls and sculptures are created using a slush casting technique that he has been experimenting with since the beginning of 1989. Pouring the metal a few ounces at a time at different temperatures enables him to control surface textures and to build layers as wanted. It takes eight to twelve hours to cast a full torso. Fabrication and finish work take two to three weeks. The pewter that Brandom uses is an alloy of 92% tin, 4% antimony, and 4% copper. It does not tarnish like silver, so does not need to be polished frequently. Fingerprints, dirt, and pollutants from the air will discolor the metal. A cleaning with a soft cloth and Windex will usually remedy this. If the metal is badly stained, use Brasso to restore the finish. Some collectors like the soft tones that metal turns when handled frequently, so feel free to touch. Pewter is a soft metal, and will dent or bend easily. Please handle the objects carefully. Repairs are costly and gentleness is free. Joseph L. Brandom
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Joe with Patti
Jones......the love of his life..... 
