When Metal Speaks: Virgil Taylor Finds Inspiration for Works in Middle Eastern, African History

Feb 7, 2022

Born in Detroit and electrified by fire, Virgil Taylor has been creating for most of his life, but despite crafting wearable items, Virgil Taylor considers himself a metalworker and not a jeweler. His work, he explained, comes out as a more organic, unrefined product. And his inspiration? The ancient history and designs of Middle East and African countries. For Detroit Performs, Virgil Taylor takes viewers inside his workspace at the Birmingham-Bloomfield Art Center to premiere some of the beading work, African bracelets and other items he’s currently working on for clients.

Virgil Taylor artwork

Virgil Taylor’s metalwork. | Photo by One Detroit

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