Our next feature for Contemporary Art Month is Isaac Maxwell Metal, where for forty years, Master Craftsmen and their apprentices have been dedicated to creating quality heritage items, guaranteed to last generations. Each artistic endeavor begins with a selection from their archive of original designs, and fine grade sheets of metal are then hand formed, punched or embossed to exacting measurements. Over time, custom-made tools have even been developed to create the distinctive patterning found only on an authentic design.
Isaac Maxwell began his career in the 1960’s in a King William house and, as the architectural practice became more and more successful, Isaac found he lacked the time required of his elaborate metal fabrication. In 1978, he brought into his practice a young carpenter and wood-carver, Gregorio Rebollar, who he trained as an apprentice. Gregorio remembers that Isaac was a demanding teacher, accepting nothing less than perfection. Isaac became godfather for Gregorio and his family, and is even the namesake for his grandson. After Isaac’s passing in 1998, his widow and fellow architect, Judith, carried on the business until October, 2014 when, with her blessing, close friend of Isaac and Judith, Mike Casey, took over IMM along with Gregorio, now a master craftsman, as equal partner. Gregorio has brought in as apprentices his grandson, Abel Gonzales and son in law, Jacob Reza and the tradition continues! With access to Isaac’s original drawings, the studio can reproduce any fixture or accessory from the archives of Isaac Maxwell Metal.
Photo by Billy Calzada, San Antonio Express-News
The fixtures Isaac designed are much more than just a source of light. Through individually punched holes in copper, light and shadow are cast into mesmerizing patterns on the ceiling and walls and, with his torchieres, onto the floor. Isaac was also known for his exquisite doors of copper and brass, cabinet hardware, planters and other handmade accessories which he created to complement the architecture of the houses he designed.
Photo by Billy Calzada, San Antonio Express-News
Works from IMM appear in the Frost Bank downtown, the Tower of the Americas, along the River Walk, and in the homes Isaac designed as the architect for some of the city’s most prominent families.
Learn more about the rich history and incomparable craftsmanship of Isaac Maxwell Metal.