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Stephen was born to second and third generation Scottish Americans. His mother's father, William Watt, and his father's grandfather, John Walker, both came from Aberdeenshire—a part of Scotland rich in Celtic and Pictish art. They settled in New York State and Vermont respectively, near the turn of the century. Susan's grandmother Delany was from County Tipperary in Ireland before emigrating in her teens to Auburn, NY. Her father's side of the family came to the US from Scotland by way of Nova Scotia.
Stephen was originally attracted to Celtic design by way of Celtic music. At age 14 he found his life revolving around the Allegany Highlanders Bagpipe Band. He went from crafting pipe band regalia to jewelry and art metal during his teens with the guidance of his art teacher Scotty MacCrea.
Stephen later graduated from Syracuse University, where he met his wife Susan, in 1980 with an art degree in Metalsmithing, followed by a Master of Fine Arts from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale in 1982. His master work focused primarily on Mokume-Gane and married metals—techniques that continue to inspire our multiple metal frame pieces today. During this time Susan received her BA in Marketing and a Master's degree in Education.
In 1983 Stephen and Sue returned to his hometown to raise their family in the quiet community in the Allegany foothills of Andover, NY. Over the years Stephen slowly grew his business from 3 designs sold by catalog to the bustling workshop and retail location that exists today.
Meanwhile Susan was teaching math at Alfred State College and growing their family to include Andrew, Jeanne, Margaret, Donald, William, and Stephen J. In the mid 90's Susan joined the family business, using her background in business and marketing to run operations so Stephen could focus on his artistry. Today Walker Metalsmiths is a community-minded business that runs both a craftsman workshop, retail gallery, and thriving online business.
Stephen enjoys training apprentices and passing on his skills to the next generation. He's an avid member of the local Ski Patrol trained in mountain rescue, a long-time member of the Andover Lion's Club, and still plays bagpipes in the 4th of July parade.
Susan was a member of the Andover School Board for 25 years before retiring. She enjoys reading, crochet, and tending her lilac and blueberry bushes. Their main joy is family—now including 5 grandchildren they can often be found visiting.
Stephen is co-author of The Modern History of Celtic Jewellery: 1840-1980, the definitive scholarly work on the Celtic Revival. He also serves on the advisory panel for the George Bain Collection at Groam House Museum in Scotland.
Monday-Friday 9-5
Saturday 10-3