Master silversmith, chaser, repoussér, artist, designer
Alan Revere, Revere Academy of Jewelry Arts.
"I have always admired the skills of the ancient masters. My native Bulgaria was the homeland of the legendary Thracian gold and silversmiths, who created their timeless masterpieces some 2500 years ago.
Their exquisite works had a great influence on my personal style, and became an inspiration for life. I am attracted to the richness of the ancient forms and designs. Ancient gold and silver pieces are so mysterious, distant and different - they appear to me like today's new concept in metal.
Over the course of a decade I studied newly excavated gold and silver treasures, then copied some of the vessels to find what tools and techniques were used by the Thracian masters. That was an exciting spiritual communication with a far-off epoch, and my first introduction to chasing and repoussé.
These magnificent techniques, almost lost through the ages, became my favorite form of expression in metal. Not only for the dramatic enhancement they bring to one's work - I believe that as we look into the future, relying on modern technologies and inventions, we should not let our previous knowledge and experience be forgotten, or even lost.
Within each of my works lives the preservation of an old metalwork technique, representing the rich history and culture of my country. Like my ancestors, I hope that these skills and techniques will be preserved and passed on so they can be appreciated by future generations, as well."
Valentin Yotkov
Valentin is happy to answer any questions about chasing or repoussé you might have - contact him either via his site or the email address on the front page of eNAMEL.
