David Dear

Born of Welsh, German and Cherokee bloodlines, David Dear's love for the Southwest has accounted for his interest in reviving and retaining early Southwestern metalworking techniques. Though he's well versed in using state of the art equipment, he prefers using tools forged by his own hand, much as the early silversmiths did.

To achieve a high-luster finish, traditional Native American silversmiths commonly rubbed their silver jewelry with leather and wood ashes. After years of use the shiny surface becomes worn, displaying a satiny, low-luster finish. It is this soft patina which Dear tries to reproduce, using files, sandpaper, and finally, fine steel wool.

David Dear has been silversmithing professionally since 1970. In 1980, he was awarded the prestigious National Endowment for the Arts Craftsmans' Fellowship. David's work is exhibited throughout the world and can be found locally at the Museum of New Mexico and the Wheelwright Museum.