What’s happening with Nathaniel Reinhartz
This past Saturday I had the opportunity to photograph the beautiufl fireplace surround, hand forged by Nathaniel Reinartz; and installed in an equally gorgeous arts and crafts style home located on Milwaukee’s East side. Nathaniel brought many of the formal details of the original woodwork, as well as the masonry, into his metal work. Additional details of this piece (as well as some of Nathaniel’s railings).
Leica R8/DMR, 21 mm Super Angulon
Leica R8/DMR, 35 mm Summilux
Back in May I had the opportunity to photograph a chandelier designed, forged and fabricated by Nathaniel Reinartz. In his portfolio catalog Nathaniel describes it as mild steel, fire scale and beeswax finish, diameter: 36” height: 48”. The wax lamp shades have each taken on its own subtly different shape from the heat of the electric lamps and provide the feeling of warm candle light. Nothing quite like having artists create functional work specific to a site — whether an architect designing a building, a metal smith designing a lamp, a graphic designer working out elements for a web site, or a photographer providing images for a site.
Upon arriving at the location I felt immediate appreciation for how beautifully the piece integrated with its surroundings. Not knowing what either the piece or environmental conditions would require I brought three Elinchrom studio strobes with various umbrellas and soft boxes; but needed to use only one light in an octagonal soft box to achieve some highlight modeling on the right side of the chandelier’s two rims.
Leica R8/DMR, 35 mm Summilux
Leica R8/DMR, 21 mm Super Angulon
Leica R8/DMR, 60 mm Macro Elmarit
“It is discomforting to know that if only Beauty could be found then Beauty would cease to exist.” — Dominic Rouse
“A thing of beauty is a joy forever; its loveliness increases; it will never pass into nothingness.” — John Keats
Yesterday provided an opportunity to photograph and add to the portfolio of Nathaniel Reinartz. Nathaniel continues to demonstrate his remarkable attention to nature’s details; as well as mastery of his craft. The detail of the candle holder on this sconce also attests to his exploration of new forms.
Recently I’ve begun to work with Nathaniel Reinartz. We’re upgrading his presentation portfolio and discussing possibilities and usefulness of web sites for blacksmiths. This young man’s work certainly demonstrates attention to detail, impeccable craftsmanship and a fine aesthetic sensibility.
“Oh my son’s my son till he gets him a wife, but my daughter’s my daughter all her life.” — Dinah Maria Mulock Craik.
Ann and Erin at Irish Fest, on Ann’s birthday, August 17, 2008.
