Artist Spotlight: Sharon Stafford

Metalwerx artist, Sharon Stafford, has been a beloved participant in Waltham Open Studios since 2013. Creating pieces such as jewelry and woven baskets, Sharon’s industrious and elegant artwork incorporate metalsmithing with woven and crocheted wire.  She discovered metals in high school and college, but her career initially took her in other directions. In 2006, her love of metalworking was reignited by a Weaving with Metals class: “Fiber techniques with metal grabbed me then and hasn’t let go.” Her style typically draws from nature, foldformed copper samples, and found metal objects, making her pieces feel both familiar and unique. Inspiration can find Sharon at almost any time of day if “[her] mind is wandering down just the right path.” 

When asked why it is important to foster a community of artists, she says: “A community of artists is a key factor in my practice for cross-pollination of ideas & techniques, trouble-shooting, constructive criticism, and most importantly camaraderie. I find that working alone doesn't keep my creative energy very well fed.”

Where can you find her work?

• “Inseparable” will be on display at Basketry Now 2025, present by the National Basketry Organization, July 29 – October 18, 2025 at the Textile Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota

• Waltham Open Studios, 144 & 289 Moody Street, Waltham, November 1-2, 2025

• Arlington Open Studios, 20 Academy St, Arlington November 8, 2025

• Winchester Open Studios, November 22, 2025

Learn more about Sharon Stafford.