CENTRAL CITY — Founded during the Colorado Gold Rush in 1859, Central City became known for the discovery of rich gold deposits in the surrounding mountains. As mining expanded, metals like silver and copper were also extracted from the area's extensive mineral veins.
As history would have it, this set the town’s growth into one of Colorado's most prosperous mining communities. Today, its preserved Victorian architecture and mining history reflect the boom years that shaped the region.
In the modern world, metals still abound in various ways. One of these is the incorporation of metals into art. Meet Helen Arendt. She has been working in silver, gold, copper, brass, and her own hand-fabricated bi-metal.
“I build each piece through the Roycroft philosophy of head, heart, and hands, blending thoughtful design, emotional connection, and skilled craftsmanship,” shares Arendt, whose work can also be found at Mountain Goat Tees in Nederland.
Helene Arendt's jewelry and crafts are at the Gilpin County Arts Association gallery, 117 Eureka Street, Central City. You can call her at 303-885-1159 or learn more by visiting csbmetalsmith.com. You can find her on Facebook at facebook.com/profile.php/?id=100064197032439.
