Judy Hallisy, 70 years old, a book store owner, takes classes at SmartShop Metal Arts Center.

Why do you take classes at SmartShop?

I enjoy working with metal and learning different aspects of metalworking. I love the studio and feel at home here.

What is your favorite tool at SmartShop? And what's your favorite activity?

Welder and forge. Learning to patina.

What was the most difficult thing to try, and how did SmartShop help you succeed?

Successful fitting fused and blown glass into metal stands.

What kinds of things do you like to make? What inspires you to make them?

Patchwork horses/saleable art, which requires welding, polishing, sand-blasting and finishing with patinas- placing them in a "workable" setting (i.e. hanging or standing)

How many projects have you completed at SmartShop and which is your favorite?

Many, including two tables (one for a mosaic piece that I designed and built).

Do you have a background in art or metalworking, or when you started were you a novice in either or both of these activities?

No.

Through taking classes at SmartShop, what have you learned about yourself and what you are capable of accomplishing?

I've learned to appreciate how long it can take to finish a piece and to have more patience with myself and the piece.

The classes that Judy has taken at SmartShop Metal Arts Center over three and a half years, over 28 classes, include:  Intermediate Metals, Beginning Bronze Casting, Intro to Welding, Nonferrous Metals, Forging Flora and Fauna, Steel Tables, Chairs & Benches, Forge, Flame & Hammer, Brazing in the Sun.