Laura Tarbutton Beach House Studio

The main focus of the Beach House Studio is metal, but not by any means the only emphasis. Laura began her journey in this art form with PMC Precious Metal Clay. Working in PMC since 2004, the medium yields itself easily to the incorporation of textures and shapes seen in the natural world, but she has found there is no limit in the medium of metal. In the work of the studio, she strives for an organic feel where textures abound and a love of nature shines through.

Textures are prominent in these pieces whether they are lampwork beads, PMC, pottery, enameled PMC and copper, or Mixed Media Jewelry. Interests are varied, and using simple items like lace, bark, netting, leaves, and crushed glass are all things that can inspire in an instant and forge a new project. PMC is only one of the many ways that she uses metal in these pieces. Sterling silver, fine silver, copper, other base metals, and enameled and flame painted copper are all used to create unique pieces of jewelry.

Laura’s studio setup has progressed along with her work. The Beach House Studio has always been a place of sharing and learning, a place to share techniques and ideas. After retiring in late 2022, her husband Ron began helping in the studio, cutting out copper shapes and working the clay studio. They work with chainmaille expert, Jackie Messer, to create pieces as well as Israeli artist Cecilia Cohen (now a Washington state resident) who creates unique lampwork beads. These collaborations have led to the creation of jewelry with lampwork beads incorporated into chainmaille necklaces, earrings and bracelets. Also, they produce enamels used with copper and Precious Metal Clay and etching or fusing metal with cold connections.

Laura’s work was included in the book The Glass Artist's Studio Handbook (Studio Handbook Series) by Cecilia Cohen.

Brandon, MS
Mixed Media
Guild member since 2011
Fellow since 2020