Erin, already on a her way to a
degree in Archaeology and Anthropology from the University of Texas,
began studying metalsmithing in 1994. Tiger soon joined Erin at
blacksmithing and the two discovered their love of the ancient craft
while working for a blacksmith in a shop in Austin. Erin taught
traditional blacksmithing at Pioneer Farms in Austin and in 1996 the
pair began teaching metalsmithing classes at recreation centers around
the city in an after school program called Totally Cool, Totally Art,
which was so successful that it is now a national program.
They have studied jewelry fabrication
and metal arts which is readily apparent in their creation of
functional items that have a definite ornamental flair. Earthen
Metals uses original designs as well as adapting designs provided by
clients while using a variety of metals. Projects include
furniture and accessories for the home, office and garden. All of
their creations are hand forged and crafted to suit each individual
client’s needs.
The Flores’ founded Earthen
Metals in Elgin in 1997, are members of Balcones Forge, a central Texas
blacksmithing group and the Artist Blacksmith’s Association of
North America. Erin and Tiger also repair antiques and do
historical restorations. They participated in the restoration of
the building that has become the Elgin Depot Museum. The project
won the Texas Downtown Association’s award for the best
restoration project in 2002 and also the Historic Restoration award
from Preservation Texas.
