Zimke Designs
Welcome to Zimke Designs where we create one of a kind handmade pieces that can enhance your living space. With proper care these unique creations can last for lifetimes and be a treasured heirloom enjoyed for generations. Whether you buy from one of our own creations or want us to craft a custom piece, we look forward to enhancing your lives by creating items that can serve your unique desires.
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Keith makes unique hand forged pieces that are made of high quality durable metals. Blending traditional blacksmithing methods and unique designs he hopes to make artistic metalwork that can enhance any space.
A lifetime resident of the beautiful Shenandoah Valley in Virginia, Keith draws inspiration from the natural beauty literally surrounding him. From the swirling eddies in a stream, to the gentle falling of the colored leaves of autumn, and the hushed silence of snow covered mountains, inspiration is all around. The ability to bring that feeling into your home, that is art.
He was trained at the Virginia Institute of Blacksmithing , receiving certification in Artistic Blacksmithing from the Virginia State Council of Higher Education. He is also a member of the Artistic Blacksmithing Association of North America, the Shenandoah Valley Blacksmith Guild, and the Shenandoah Valley Art Center. Keith strives to create pieces that bring organic line and structure to the rigid medium of metals. The flow and design of each piece is meant to elicit emotional response, to stir something deep within, that can be shared with family and friend alike.
Brenda creates unique ceramic pieces using a variety of clays. She especially enjoys making functional pottery with an artistic flare and a hint of whimsy. Brenda strives to create practical pottery and sculptures that evoke a feeling of happiness and bring a smile to those who see her work.
Brenda has made the Shenandoah Valley her home for nearly 20 years and is influenced by the natural beauty that surrounds her. As an animal lover, Brenda is often inspired by the antics of her beloved pets - her bird Petey, a Green Cheek Conure and her cat Elmo, a Maine Coon mix. She enjoys experimenting with textures, especially those that remind her of nature and animals. Brenda feels at peace while creating pottery, and often refers to the time she spends with clay as her "happy place". It is her desire to integrate that peace and joy into every piece she makes.