Rayan Downing
Bio
I grew up and was homeschooled in Dismal, TN. Both my parents are artists, and I was given free reign to my own creative processes at a young age. I took a blacksmithing class in my early teens, however my craft is predominantly self taught through a series of trial and error.
Describe your art/craft (medium, process, etc).
I create one of a kind handmade knives. Ranging from every day use hunting and camping purposes, to high end kitchen cutlery with fancy decorative yet still functional Damascus patterning. I incorporate a mixture of both local and exotic, but responsibly sourced materials in my work.
What drives you to make your art/craft?
Unfortunately my strongest drive at this time is capitalism. The overwhelming need to survive in the world we live, and refusal to spend my life building somebody else’s dream.
Outside of that, I am driven to spend time in nature, as well as being particularly food motivated. It’s my goal to create tools that accompany myself and others through daily tasks.
Who or what are your greatest influences?
My family, my home, and other surrounding artists.
How does living in Tennessee influence and inspire your art?
I live here. I breathe the air, drink the water, and eat the food from this land. Without these elements neither my work, nor myself would be.
Beyond your art/craft, what are your other interests?
Minding my own business 🙂
Anything else you want to share?
Y’all come back now!
Creating in the back woods of Dismal TN, I craft handmade cutlery, metal fabrication, and woodworking using locally sourced and exotic materials.
I grew up and was homeschooled in Dismal, TN. Both my parents are artists, and I was given free reign to my own creative processes at a young age. I took a blacksmithing class in my early teens, however, my craft is predominantly self-taught through a series of trial and error.
I create one of a kind hand made knives. Ranging from every day use hunting and camping purposes, to high end kitchen cutlery with fancy decorative yet still functional Damascus patterning. I incorporate a mixture of both local and exotic, but responsibly sourced materials in my work.
