For anyone who has lived in New York, the sound of silence can be a rare and beautiful thing. The sounds of dogs barking, trucks rattling by or car alarms right before you fall asleep is the music your ears become used to, and either becomes your lullaby or your worst nightmare. It took me a few months to adjust to Portland, it was so quiet! Even here, I still find myself craving the soothing sounds of nature I’ve found on the Oregon coast. It was wonderful to find Grey Bentley’s bells, made by hand from recycled and antique metals. Each creates a unique, pure tone that reminds me to clear the noise from my mind and find a peaceful focus. Here are a few questions he graciously answered for us about his work:
When did you start working with metal?
Ever since I was a little kid of had a fascination with metal, welding, and creating.
As an adult, I’ve moved towards creating unique, beautiful, yet functional pieces
that people could enjoy in everyday life.
Why bells? What is it about making them that appeals to you?
I’ve always been drawn to nature, and the meditative tone that it creates.
I wanted to incorporate some of my work so that it felt like it belonged.
It seemed like the natural step to create bells and chimes that produce sounds
that resonate with nature.
What’s your motto when it comes to your work?
Beautiful, functional simplicity.
