Featured Artist
David Alderson by Teresa Marsh
Published on 02/02/2010
Our Featured Artist for this month is Dave Alderson, from Twin Falls, Idaho. A master silver smith and TCAA member since 2002 and has been in the business since 1974. He is a prime example of the traditional one man shop operation with a continually evolving and unique style that is distinctly his own. He's developed his business by creating beautifully designed pieces using top quality materials without limits on time or effect invested. Venturing into territory, where copying mass producers are unable to follow. Recently he returned from a trip to Argentina where he spent time trading techniques and expertise, putting on a workshop and visiting the Plateria Olavarriense School an iconic institution and Armando Ferriera (sus Maestros y Discripulos). This visit was very well received. A full report is in the works.
When Dave's not hard at work in his shop, he is a very serious fisherman and never misses an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, scheduling a little extra time while traveling to explore new rivers and streams throughout the west. Dave gave us a little insight as to what keeps him excited about his work. "As a great supporter of working arts, I have seen many changes since my beginning in the field of silver smithing. I certainly have seen the rise of high tech influences, computer equipment and tools, all are wonderful. I have tried to keep up on all the new developments over the years, sometimes at great expense. I keep going back in time to historic old school methods to achieve my goals in creativity. This ever increasing thirst for knowledge has led me to go places and try things I never thought I would have a chance to do. Success is fleeting and frightening to me but it also has its rewards, that is what keeps me going for now." Dave Alderson