The Clockwork Pirate jewelry start

Michael Sweeney, The Clockwork Pirate

My artwork is an exploration of steampunk culture and fashion through the use of multiple materials.  The majority of my materials are recycled from what most people see as scrap, with an emphasis on copper and brass. I use ‘rustic,’ free hand techniques as much as possible, such as hammer-and-anvil shaping, to give my pieces a rough finish more fitting with the cultural theme.

 

Classic ‘Steampunk’ typically consists of steam-powered machinery and clockwork combined with science fiction elements. I have found inspiration in many different places including music, movies, and fashion. Industrial and watch making history are great influences for me, as well.

 

I became an artist as a way to reinvent myself. The fact that steampunk culture grew out of Cosplay intrigued me. Cosplay is dressing as a character from a work or genre of fiction. It’s a popular practice at fan conventions. To be a ‘Steampunk’ I would need to create my own character. The ability to leave my everyday life behind and enter a world of whimsical gadgetry, alternative history, and a quasi-Victorian elegance is very refreshing. The work becomes its own world, where my eccentric ideas are the norm.

 

I am the Clockwork Pirate venturing by sea, sky, or land as a privateer for hire specializing in mischief, madness, and mayhem with frequent tea breaks. Once a common gentleman, now driven to create a mixture of beautiful jewelry and monstrous machines from scrap materials and plundered bounty. It may be insanity, ingenuity, or both that spark the need to give new life to the materials that most people discard. That is for you to decide. Either way, you may want to hide your watches.