Instead of highlighting a single artist, the Sundial Silverstones have named sisters Mary Bremer and Helen Bunde as their artists of the month.

Ms. Bremer started working with silver about six years ago, for several reasons. She has been active with many other crafts and had always been anxious to learn silversmithing because her father had been a silversmith. She states that another reason for her interest was that she was looking for something new to learn that she could share with her sister.

When asked about her favorite creation, Ms. Bremer says it was her very first turquoise ring. Making rings is what she likes to do best, so much so she’s made 35 of them. She also likes the different colors of stones and feels the rings make great gifts for her family. She doesn’t just work with silver, however; she’s an artist in other mediums and just loves to create.

“I want to continue learning from all the talented people at the silver clubs and brush up on my lapidary skills,” stated Ms. Bremer of her future plans. “I would also like to continue working with my sister.”

Ms. Bunde gives credit for her interest in silversmithing to her sister. She said she had always done various crafts, like crotchet, knitting, and with two daughters she became a seamstress making everything from casual clothes to prom and wedding dresses. But even with all that craft activity, she had never done any silver work until her sister got her interested in it. Since she started three years ago, Ms. Bunde has done silver casting, wire wrapping, chaining and fused glass as well as taking lessons in lapidary.

“I usually have someone in mind for the item I’m making,” Ms. Bunde stated when asked how she starts one of her creations and what inspires her, “so I take into consideration what their likes are.” Having the satisfaction of getting a project done and having it look great is what provides all the inspiration she needs. As far as her favorite piece? Her answer was that every piece she works on is her favorite.