Master Silversmith Curtis Pete Shares Stamp-Making at Meltdown Studio
This weekend, Meltdown Studio had the profound honor of hosting master silversmith Curtis Pete for a transformative stamp-making workshop. For those who joined us, it was far more than just a class—it was a rare opportunity to learn directly from one of the finest artists working in traditional Native silversmithing today.
Curtis brought to our space not only his exceptional technical skill, but also a deep cultural knowledge and a spirit of generosity that elevated the experience for everyone involved. With quiet precision and patient instruction, he guided students through the intricate process of forging their own handmade steel stamps—each a tool that will last a lifetime.
Throughout the workshop, students learned to shape, carve, and temper their stamps, gaining insight into the kinds of details that distinguish truly excellent craftsmanship. From understanding tool steel properties to refining the geometry of stamping edges, every step was taught with clarity and care. It was striking to witness how quickly students progressed under Curtis’s instruction. By the end of each day, students had created their own array of stamps—beautiful, functional, and deeply personal.
The impact of this class extends well beyond the final products. Curtis’s presence reminded us all of the long tradition of metalwork we are a part of, and of the responsibility we carry when we pick up these tools. His teaching style balanced humility with mastery, inviting students not only to improve their technique, but to approach their work with respect and thoughtfulness.
We are grateful to Curtis for sharing his time and knowledge with us, and to our students for meeting the challenge with such enthusiasm and intention. The energy in the studio was electric—a testament to how meaningful this kind of hands-on learning can be when led by a true master.
It is our mission at Meltdown Studio to offer instruction that honors the lineage of our craft while pushing our community forward. Hosting this workshop was a profound expression of that vision. We look forward to continuing to bring extraordinary opportunities like this to our students.
