Gordon Barnett, founder of GRB Bells, created a line of miniature sculptural bells known around the world for their exquisite design and beautiful sound. As he approached 80, an important question arose: What would happen to the bells and the artistry behind them?

Enter Monica “Momo” Street, a multimedia artist and jeweler who was ready to pick up the torch and carry the work forward. Sally talks with Gordon and Monica about creativity, craftsmanship, mentorship, and the thoughtful process of planning the succession of an artisan business.

Monica Street is a multimedia artist and jeweler with extensive teaching and exhibition experience. In 2017, her work was featured in the SMG Biennial at the Washington State Convention Center and in the Ron Ho tribute exhibition at POTS Gallery in Fremont. Her work also received a Director’s Choice Award at the 2019 Pratt Fine Arts Center Auction.

Monica formerly served as manager of the Jewelry/Metals and Sculpture Studios at Pratt Fine Arts Center. During her time there, she helped bring the Bronze Pour program back online following its COVID-era closure. She also taught lost-wax casting for many years alongside Brandon Bowman.

She now works as production manager for Gordon Barnett at GRB Bells and is preparing to continue the bell-making tradition he began.

Gordon Barnett was born in 1945 and grew up on a wheat farm in northwestern Kansas, the eldest son in a large extended family. He began painting at his grandmother’s enamel-topped kitchen table and later majored in painting at the University of Denver. He received his BFA in 1967, along with the faculty award for achieving the highest marks and showing the greatest promise.

While in college, Gordon worked part-time in a small jewelry shop, where he began learning basic metalworking techniques. He eventually established a studio in which he carved and cast what he called “little operas”—jewel-like sculptures in gold and silver. After a decade of doing his own casting, he encouraged a friend to open a foundry and carved a bell as its first product.

He soon became fascinated by the improbable physics of creating a miniature sculpture that could also ring.

Learn more at GRBBells.com.