Gordon K. Uyehara is a freelance artist/designer and writer. He is also an Art Clay Silver Senior Instructor. Born and raised in Hawaii, Gordon received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. After working thirteen years in the information technology field, he decided to take some time off for artistic exploration. Taking a class on silver clay at a local workshop he realized that he had found his muse! Gordon still lives in Honolulu and from there he is actively involved in local, national and international competitions. He conducts workshops and speaks at conferences and his art is often featured in magazines, books, blogs and websites. Gordon authored a book,Metal Clay Fusion, which came out in March 2012.

A semi-precious gemstone, Rainbow Fluorite is famous for its beautiful bands of color, often seen side by side creating a stunning striped look. These bands, called zones are most often seen in purple and green. Less commonly seen are yellow, pink, reddish-orange, blue, black, brown or colorless stones. Because of the colors and its beauty, Rainbow Fluorite (also called fluorspar) is often called "the most colorful mineral in the word."

Since 1984, Andy Cooperman metalsmith, writer and teacher has lived and worked in Seattle where he makes jewelry and small art objects for museum exhibitions, galleries, as well as commission works for private clients. His work has been featured in many publications, including Penland Book of Jewelry and the new book Humor in Craft and is held in private and public collections including the Victoria and Albert Museum, Central College in Pella Iowa and the Tacoma Art Museum. Andy teaches and lectures nationally and also taught in the metals program at the University of Washington. In the following interview, Andy discusses his transition from an English major student to metalsmith, conceptual aspects of his art, recommendations for students, and discusses what it means to be a “Zengineer”.