My Friend and Mentor Larry Stulorow

When I first became a jewelry student of jay Whaley's at UCSD's Crafts Center, Jay's TA of long standing was Larry Stolurow. Larry was then 85 years young, and sharp and dynamic as they come.

He was tireless in meeting, greeting, and mentoring every incoming class. I observed this for 5 years. August 3rd, 2008 was Larry's 90th Birthday, and The Grove Gallery at UCSD's Crafts Center was honoring Larry Stolurow with a one man Show of his jewelry. It was elegantly staged, using Leather Bound Classical Books as props for Larry's Jewelry.

Let me tell you about Larry's Jewelry, it was adventuresome and imaginative way beyond the realm of most. Early on, Larry used Argentium and a full sized Scallop Shell to create a Belt Buckle. It used all of Jay Whaley's casting skills to fulfill Larry's dream. It was proudly worn and displayed by Larry.

He made use of every technique known, and added some of his own. Skull Rings were on display side by side with faceted gemstone "fine jewelry." Larry sawed out figures, and fabricated pins, bracelets, focal pieces in necklaces. He pierced, fused, soldered, riveted, you name it, Larry did it. He was seen in Galleries in la Jolla and Del Mar, and was anxiously sought out by fans at the bi-annual Student's Sale at UCSD.

Larry was ill the entire month of his One man's Show at UCSD, and was unable to continue as Jay Whaley's TA, at UCSD. This is when I agreed to be Jay's TA until such time as Larry was strong enough to return to his proper place. No one wanted Larry back as much as me. My first couple of weeks on my feet for the entire length of the class, was torturous. I ached all over, I respected Larry all the more for all he did, alloy metal, shoot waxes, assist in soldering, finishing, maintaining tools and selling wheels, mandrels and burs. It is a never ending job, and he did it with ease for some 20 plus years. His shoes will never fit.

Larry was never strong enough to return, we kept up with him via visits and email. His and his wife Sue's welcome was always with open arms and delicious nibbles. Larry offered his vast journals and lapidary magazines to us, the University, somewhere they would be of use and value. He, they, are generous beyond belief.

Larry is entering a new path now, not a happy one for any of us, one which we will all follow, some knowing we are there, others never knowing what hit them. This is hard for me to even think about, no less share it with those who read this. Larry is a friend, mentor, advisor, and a great human. May this path be peaceful, I'll be right along side of you every step, both mentally and when possible, physically. Thank you for your friendship, I have always, and will always, value it.