GREENFIELD — The Warren Cultural Center presents “Alchemy: Transforming Historic Copper into Art,” a solo exhibit of artwork featuring copper salvaged from the E.E. Warren Opera House’s restoration.
A complete restoration of the 1896 Warren Opera House building in Greenfield was completed in 2012. During that restoration, it was determined that the copper cornice could not be saved, so it was replaced with new copper. Greenfield artist Deb Houghtaling has transformed the original, salvaged copper into jewelry, ornaments, keepsakes and now wall art and clocks.
“It’s amazing to think that this copper faced the Greenfield square for 115 years,” said Houghtaling. “I like the idea that the pieces I create with this metal all have special significance because of that.”
In the exhibit, Houghtaling presents 55 pieces of wall art showing a variety of metalworking techniques such as fold forming, dapping, texturing, cold connecting and fire painting. The artwork also highlights the different textures and untouched colors of the salvaged metal.
“Each piece of copper I start with is completely unique because of variations in the texture and the color and intensity of the natural patina. One piece in the show highlights bullet holes, a fairly regular feature in the original copper,” said Houghtaling.
After taking one Chicago Park District metalsmithing class 12 years ago, Houghtaling is a mostly self-taught artist. Her favorite technique is using materials that often would be considered trash such as salvaged metal or glass and transforming them into jewelry or art.
The exhibit will run through Aug. 28, and all artwork is for sale. A reception/demonstration is planned for 4 to 7 p.m. Aug. 20 in the Warren Cultural Center gallery.