Jewelry and Metalworking

Students in the B.F.A. and M.F.A. programs can choose to concentrate in metalsmithing and jewelry design.

The program emphasizes self-expression and artistic freedom along with the development of the technical and conceptual skills needed to create successful works in copper, sterling silver and brass. Students are taught a variety of traditional and time-honored metalworking techniques, in order to promote the creation of small sculptures or jewelry while showing a mastery of basic design principles.

 This is a supportive environment where students learn to develop their ideas into tangible objects. Further, an understanding of these objects’ relationship to the wearer/viewer is stressed. Students challenge pre-conceived notions of jewelry and metalwork by gaining an understanding of its relationship to art history and the development of civilization as well as the personal relationship to themselves. Strict emphasis is placed on the importance of craftsmanship and professional presentation. A strong dialogue is maintained with students in order to promote the creation of successful works. The overall goal is to bring each student to a higher level of understanding the metal arts by strengthening their technical skills and conceptual experiences. Personal research is highly encouraged and expected along with exhibiting work in professional venues and joining the Society of North American Goldsmiths at the student level for B.F.A. and M.F.A. students.

The jewelry studio is well equipped with excellent custom ventilation, professional jeweler’s benches; professional soldering stations; centrifugal casting equipment, lapidary equipment, magnetic finisher, draw bench, metal brake, English Wheel, buffing machines, magnetic finisher, hydraulic press, and an array of specialty raising and forming hammers including micro-raising equipment.