About

The first time I worked with metal was in 1976. The process seemed very natural. The tools in my hands, the feel of the metal and the glow of the torch - it was a very organic experience for me. I have made jewelry ever since. Combining metal, mineral and natural elements, these are the things that attract me to making a piece of jewelry. It’s not just about adornment. It’s about form, flow, color and texture.

Strong influences in my work have been my summer living in Japan in 1970. I was dazzled by this magnificent culture. I have also studied the ancient art, jewelry and architecture of Egypt, North West Africa, Greece and Mycenae. The Caribbean also had a great impact on my work. I lived there nine years and developed a love of color and nature that are still with me.

Last but not least, my parents. My father, a craftsman and jack of many trades, gave me a love of tools and detail work. My mother, a very talented painter among many things, taught me by example that through hard work and determination, you will be successful.

The basis of my work is the combination of the experiences I have had and a deep passion for what I create. My craft has sustained me through the years and through my travels. I will always be grateful to all who have made it possible for me to continue to do what I love.

-Robin Hepburn robin@orionjewelrystudio.com

Education

  • Associate of Art, Maine College of Art - Portland, Maine

Work Shops & Apprenticeships

  • Marriage of Metals, Patti Daundis Dunning, Maine College of Art, 1979
  • Studio Instructor Assissant, Peters Valley Craft Education Center, Layton, New Jersey, Summer 1981
  • Production Assisstant/Apprentice to Michael Lieber
    Resident Artist, Peters Valley, Summer 1981
  • New Jewelry Techniques, Bruce Metcalf, Peters Valley, 1981
  • Metal Etching and Fusion, Sharon Church, Peters Valley, 1981
  • Advanced Metalsmithing, University of the Arts, Philadelphia, PA, 1982
  • Modern Sculpture, Valerie Maynard, College of the Virgin Islands, 1984
  • Anticlastic Raising, Michael Good, Penland School of Crafts, 1989
  • Tool Making and Bench Tricks, Doug Zaruba, Peters Valley, 1991
  • Modern Blacksmithing, Stephen Yusko, Peters Valley, 1993
  • Surface Embellishment, Harold O’Connor, Peters Valley, 1996
  • Advanced Stone Setting, Blain Lewis, New Approach School for Jewelers, 2000

Affiliations