JP Rosenquist, Silversmith, and Ray Warren, Ironsmith, Moccasin Creek Studio

A wooded lane leads you to an open rolling green field as you approach the studio. It is a peaceful place, shaded by mighty oaks and pines, secluded from the world. We are so grateful for the opportunity to work and live on our home place! As artists, we often refer to our work as being "made under the influence of the Arkansas Ozarks" because we truly feel inspired by these hills.

Joellen (JP) began attending the "School of the Art Institute of Chicago" while still in high school. A native southside Chicagoan, the city gave her numerous cultural opportunities which she took advantage of at an early age. She has been a serious art student most of her life, working in a variety of medias. It was in New Mexico in 1975, where she was befriended by Navajo silversmith Cinda Paulson, who hired her as an apprentice. Jo has been silversmithing ever since. She moved to her homestead in rural Arkansas in 1982, and in 1983 became a member of the Arkansas Craft Guild. Her work includes rings, earrings, pendants, bracelets and a wide assortment of pins, that are classic in design, victorian in nature. Each element is handcrafted with serious attention to detail, resulting in no two pieces exactly alike. Her trademark leaves are often intertwined with tendrils of silver encompassing a faceted garnet, amethyst or topaz. Gold has been mixed into her work lately, especially for her custom wedding rings. JP.s jewelry can be found at the Arkansas Craft Gallery in Mtn.View and Jewel Box in Eureka Springs.

Ray was born and raised in Libby, Arkansas on the Little Red River. Most of his professional career was spent as a civil engineer, building roads and dams .He also had a career as a rodeo cowboy specializing in calf roping. In the 80's he owned a leather shop in Green Forest where he worked leather. He also designed and cast brass belt buckles for his handmade belts. Although Ray has worked with a variety of media, now, his major focus is wrought iron. He fabricates sculptures, fountains, furniture and garden ornamentation. His newest fountain "Dulcinea" was an award winner in Eureka Springs Professional category in the 2006 "Yard Art Competition". His work is recognized for its serious display of function and design, while construction technique is solid, with an eye for balance and design. His specialty work consists of custom gates, screens and distinctive entryways which grace homes and businesses.

We'll see you in 2010.

Please visit my web site at www.jprosenquist.com