WV Artist-Blacksmith Named One of the World’s Seven Premier Metal Designers by International Metal Design Annual
Perched high atop a ridge in Roane County, WV, with a commanding view of the countryside, master artist-blacksmith Jeff Fetty feels like the king of the world, and he should.
Fetty is one of only seven metal designers in the world to be selected and featured in the 2012 International Metal Design Annual. The Annual, published in Germany, selects the world’s premier metal designers and devotes a chapter to each artist and their work.
“Being chosen as one of the world’s leading metal designers is a pinnacle in my career. I could not have imagined this level of achievement and recognition 40 years ago when I began this artistic journey,” says Fetty. “The beauty of West Virginia inspires me and the people of West Virginia have supported me and that is a magical combination. Throughout my artistic career, individual patrons, government officials and foundations have been unwavering in their support of me, my vision and my art.”
First published in 1999, this series of books has become the world’s most comprehensive compendium of contemporary metal design. It is worth noting that the competition is so fierce that Fetty is only the sixth American to ever be included. (The most recent American featured was Albert Paley in 2007.) The 2012 book features artists from Austria, Great Britain, Germany, Italy, Russia, Sweden and the United States.
“The Tamarack Foundation is proud of Jeff Fetty, a member of the Tamarack family, for his recognition in the 2012 International Metal Design Annual,” says Sally Barton, Tamarack Foundation executive director.
“Fetty’s reputation as an artist and teacher has attracted students worldwide to his studio in rural West Virginia, where he uses metals and imagination to create objects of beauty and function that inspire and amaze. This international accolade will add to the rich heritage of craft that West Virginia is known for and it reflects our spirit, history and creative ingenuity. We are particularly pleased that this honor recognizes an outstanding U.S. artist and citizen who is creating and thriving in the Mountain State.”
Copies of the 2012 International Metal Design Annual are available for purchase at Jeff Fetty Designs in Spencer, WV and Taylor Books in Charleston.
