Dolph introduces Wally

I have known Jim Wallace, aka Wally, for many years. Not long enough. For starters, he's easy to be with which translates into one of the best gifts one can have in the making of a great artist/teacher. In Wally's case it is his immense knowledge of metal and the skill of putting it together plus the ability to distill it down to clear, well demonstrated classroom guidance.

I came to know this through three stages:

1. His reputation over the years being in the 'hot seat'. Literally in the smoke and fire of the smithy and figuratively in the 'hot seat' of founding and growing a jewel in the crown of Memphis arts, the National Ornamental Metal Museum.
2. Living at the Metal Museum during a crucial life transition period and being nurtured, first hand, by the energy, honest labor and creative spirit of the Museum staff and smithy crew.
3. And, after working with Wally and Museum metal working staff for two years on a major public art work, walking away thinking it was maybe the highlight of my career.

Yes, this gets quite personal, doesn't it. No apologies as I really look forward to a missing adjunct to my career. And that is teaching along side Wally at ESSA this summer. Although we will be teaching in different areas we are sure to be bouncing off of each other.

Think about it. The old watercolor painter and book maker mixing it up with an old fire dog. This should make both our classes the better.

Contributed by Dolph Smith, Bookartist and much loved, returning teacher at ESSA.

ESSA welcomes Jim Wallace, aka Wally, as he teaches Blacksmithing to a full class of eager students, along with Dolph Smith, as he returns to teach Bookmaking, one of our most popular classes. Inquire about enrollment by calling 479-253-5384 or visit esartschool.org.