Enameling

The video starts with a short history of enameling and introduces the subject as a whole. Major techniques are explained such as basse taille, cloisonné, champlevé, plique-à-jour and painted enamel. The program was shot in the studio of Jane Short, a young English enameler and jeweler who talks us through the design, making and coloring of a piece using a number of techniques. The second part takes the principal stages in greater detail, many of the demonstrations being given by Ros Conway, another English enameler, whose collaboration with Hugh O'Donnell has produced some of the finest work in enamel in the 1980s. The making of a piece is again shown from the preparation of the metal, through the packing to the firings and the final grinding and polishing. The booklet expands on the videos and gives additional information on techniques, the workshop, tools and equipment, materials, water, grinding, acidulation, keeping enamels, color samples, kiln temperatures, packing, laying, keeping a notebook, metals, design, problems and hazards.

`This is a serious, non-slick, instructional production ... an excellent teaching tool for an instructor who guides a class through the details. The technical aspects of the program are very good; close-up details of the artist at work are plentiful. There is no information lacking in this thoughtfully produced work. Recommended for public libraries with craft collections.' Video Rating Guide for Libraries, USA

`The tightness of the text and the filming, the extraordinary deftness of Jane Short, and the dedication of both enamelers to their craft make compulsive viewing. The success of the videos inspires the hope that documentary-makers will take up the challenge. They will find it difficult to better the filming of these techniques.' Crafts Magazine, London

© 1998-2008 The Roland Collection & Pira Intl.