Meet Fred Clifford | Artist and Metalsmith

We had the good fortune of connecting with Fred Clifford and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Fred, what do you attribute your success to?
I think the most important factor behind the success of the Cedar Mountain Metalcraft brand is allowing the client to be a part of the creative process. Many times people are unable to find that exact piece – railing, sign, lighting, fence, etc. – that fits their vision. I enjoy being able to take their spark of an idea, and then build and expand on it, resulting in a piece that brings their vision to reality. Additionally, being and artist myself I often collaborate with other artists to bring the element of steel into their projects. These collaborations result in exceptional results. At the end of the day these relationships are about people and people are the most important factor behind the success. My family for the support, friends and fellow artisans for ideas and collaborations or the customer who is willing to pay for something that they feel has the value of being handmade.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
While I’ve explored working with various art mediums throughout the years, I truly found my niche in metal. The purchase of a CNC Plasma table greatly expanded my capabilities but when I realized that most CNC work out there was all the same I decided that I wanted to be different so instead of utilizing the CNC to do the job I began using the CNC to make parts for my creative and custom work. This was really a stepping-off point for my creative growth and I quickly expanded to add a forge , welding, and creative finishes to my metal art. Like many hobbyists, I started by selling my metalwork at local craft shows which was a proving ground however since my transition to custom work almost every job I do is a custom commission where I can truly tailor the piece to fit the client. This is where my business took off. Every job was different, every job presented a new challenge and each job provided skills that could be incorporated to take things to another level. If you needed a tool you bought it, if you need a new skill you learned it and through this repetitive process of creativity you become a craftsperson and then when you finally find your style it becomes art! It was after I reached this point that my client base changed and i found the niche that works for my business and my clients.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I always opt for heading outdoors, away from the crowds, traffic and noise of the city. Colorado has so many beautiful places to explore it hard to narrow it down. The drive from Divide to Cripple Creek is stunning during the fall aspen season. Fly fishing the South Platte River at 11 mile Canyon is a must and there are many hiking and ATV trails in the area where you can get off the beaten path. Wildlife is abundant in the area so taking a drive on the backroads is always good for viewing elk, deer, moose, eagles and an occasional bear. Camping with friends and family and sitting around a fire makes for a relaxing time and good food.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My wife and daughter inspired me to start my metal art business and continually support and encourage me to reach new levels of creativity. Friend and fellow artist, Jeff Musgrave at The Peak Antler Company, has been a source of collaborative energy, always encouraging me to take my business to the next level. Finally, I’m always grateful to the clients who bring ideas for projects that challenge my skills and creativity.

Facebook: Cedar Mountain Metalcraft – https://www.facebook.com/Cedar-Mountain-Metalcraft-1534900203476590

Other: My metal art is also available on The Peak Antler Company website – peakantlers.com

Image Credits
Fred Clifford