Mythopoeika said:
Anybody with a doctorate in astrophysics is not going to want to do it!
That's certainly the truth..
They probably set the bar that high to screen out thousands of time-wasters who may apply.
...and that's a good point. I hadn't considered that before, but that must be the reason.
Yes...thanks for remembering! I am working on this. I am building up a huge collection of tools, books and ideas to set myself up as a metal sculptor/jeweller/designer-maker. Problem is, you need a complete set of the right tools before you can get started. It's cost me dear so far.
Another side venture I am considering is writing a few illustrated books for children. I don't expect to make much from this, but if I could make a steady trickle of money from the books, it could then free me up to do the metalwork and ditch the hated day job.
As with any venture where you set up in business, you always need a stash of cash. Wish I had more!
Oh, yes - I remember years ago a member here posted video of some moving metal sculptures they'd made - was that you? (it's been some time ago now)
I have an idea how you can get your tools, Mytho. Somewhere out there, you can bet on it, someone has the tools you need. Maybe they belonged to a professional who'd retired or passed away. Maybe even some wealthy dilettante who decided to take up metal work on a whim and now the equipment is shoved away in a basement. Wherever they are, someone has those tools and wants to get rid of them cheap - you just have to sniff them out.
Try advertising for them in the papers or a free site like Craigslist. Make an offer you can afford. (Since you're looking for tools, that's probably less likely to attract a crazed killer, IMO
) Put the word out on the street.
Do you know others who do similar work? If so, maybe some would be willing to do a deal or a swap for equipment. (If you don't know any other artists, make a point of getting to know some. As an artist myself, I know how helpful that can be.)
A slightly unusual suggestion - look for Pagans and Pagan forums. Lots of Pagans do crafts like metal work, glass-blowing and the like, and they make jewellry like there's no tomorrow. Especially the witches. :lol: And they are generally very good about trading and swapping. At worst, you might meet someone who knows someone who can get you a good deal on what you need.
Also, as a way of earning a passive income to support your work, you might consider making a blog about your projects and monetizing it. You can also try selling your artwork that way, too. (I need to do this myself, actually - I've just been too lazy.
)
These are some things to think about, anyway.