Designer Spotlight: Anthony Lera

A brief story of what you do and why you do it.

This is a third generation copper repousee family business that has been handed down to me and I specialize in hand beaten copper items. I have been in the business for over 30 years. In the last few years I introduced a line of jewellery unique to this material.

How did you get into jewelry design?

This was due to a need I saw in the market for items that would be just as good as gold to wear with everyday outfits as well as with the elegant outfits the royals wear.

What makes your collection unique?

It’s all hand made and it is an art that has been passed down through generations.

What are your inspirations?

My inspirations come from my multifaceted heritage and the people in my life. My passion comes from the drive that my partner and roommate give me, her encouragement fosters the creative juices that flow into the pieces that are created.

How are you making a difference in your life?

I am making a difference by making my clients happy.

What's something unusual about you that makes you “you”?

I strive to do better than my best every time.

What's the biggest struggle in running your jewelry business like a business?

It is not getting enough turnover to be able to sustain itself.

About Anthony

I was born in Belmont Trinidad and Tobago in 1962 where I grew up in a home surrounded by copper work as both my father and grandfather worked in this medium and as it turned out I became the third generation of copper artist in the family. I have been involved in this hand beaten craft of Copper Repousee since I was a little boy.

I entered John Donaldson Technical Institute where I studied and gained my Engineering Technicians and Jewellery Craft diplomas. After leaving school, I started my own business The Copper Artisan. I produce hand crafted lamps, wall plaques, trophies, murals, portraits, jewellery and other craft items under the guidance of my father and grandfather with the encouragement of my mother and grandmother.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheCopperArtisan