Bio
Lloyd Hughes is a fourth generation metalsmith who has been perfecting his craft for over 30 years. His work includes architectural commissions, furniture and sculpture. His primary mediums are forged steel, bronze and copper. He is a juried participant of the Kentucky Crafted Program and a member of the Kentucky Guild of Artists and Craftsmen.
In 1982 Lloyd studied with master blacksmith Bill Valerius in Chicago. He began Lloyd K Hughes Metalsmithing in 1987 to concentrate on executing his own designs. In addition to his work in Kentucky, he has extensive commissions in Florida, Georgia and New York. His pieces may be found in numerous states and as far away as Japan. He has also produced a series of instructional videos relating to his craft.
He has been active in the National Ornamental and Miscellaneous Metals Association (NOMMA) since 1980. NOMMA has more than 1000 member firms throughout the United States and in 12 foreign countries. He has chaired several committees, served on the board of directors and was elected president of NOMMA in 1993. In addition, he has demonstrated blacksmithing and given numerous workshops on the organization’s behalf.
In 2002 he helped create the NOMMA Education Foundation to increase the educational opportunities within the ornamental metals industry. His fellow trustees selected him to be the Foundation’s first chairman. NOMMA has awarded him its top awards, the Frank Kozik Volunteer Service Award and The Cliff Brown Education Award, for his contributions. He is also a former trustee of the National Metal Museum in Memphis, Tenn.