Lyle Rayfield
 My work is inspired by the wonders of nature... from organic forms to structural lines and geometric shapes… maybe a beautiful flower, an interesting insect, a leaf, or a stone. The focal elements of my work are made using fine silver and/or other metal clays, which are then complimented by gemstones, pearls, or glass. Recently, I’ve started to include traditional metals in my work, such as sterling silver and copper. My intention is to enhance life’s experiences with beauty and celebration in the form of personal adornment.
I am an Art Clay Master Instructor and Accredited Teacher for Hadar's Clay, as well as a Rio Rewards PMC Certified Artisan. I come to jewelry-making from years of experience with various artistic hobbies, including knitting, needlepoint and beading and have studied a wide range of jewelry techniques (both metal work and metal clay) from various jewelry masters. Additionally, my professional background as a teacher/trainer made it easy for me to bring my love of teaching to my jewelry career. I currently teach metal clay classes at my home studio in Tucson, AZ, as well as neighboring arts education venues. I have also taught and presented at several national jewelry venues, including the Metal Clay World Conference, Glass Craft and Bead Expo, Bead & Button Show, and Art Retreat in the Desert.
I love to nurture a student's artistic talents and help them open unknown doors to their creativity.
I am currently an active member of the Desert Artisans Gallery, a cooperative gallery of local artists located at 6536 E Tanque Verde, in Tucson. I also regularly contribute step-by-step articles for Metal Clay Today, an e-magazine for the metal clay community.
Awards & Accomplishments
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 "Dreaming Nymph"
- Honorable Mention, Second Annual North American Design Competition, Art Clay World USA, 2006
 "Looking Forward, Looking Back"- Honorable Mention, Fourth Annual North American Design Competition, Art Clay World USA, 2008; Art Clay Society brochure, 2009; The Art and Design of Metal Clay Jewelry, 2010 calendar
 "Heavy Weight Champion"- Movement and Mechanisms in Metal Clay, 2nd Edition.
 "Saguaro Scene"- Architectural Jewelry in Metal Clay
 "A View from My Kitchen"- Architectural Jewelry in Metal Clay
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