Beginning/Advanced Metal Smithing / Focus on Soldering
In-Person Visual Arts Workshop with Nancy Gardner
June 21, 22, 23, 2024
Friday, Saturday & Sunday, 10:30 – 4:30 PM
Structure of Class: (3) 6-hour in-person session (Jewelry Studio)
All Levels
Registration deadline: June 10, 2024
To register or ask questions, please email Nancy at outlawstudio@mcn.org.
CLASS DESCRIPTION
This three-day workshop will cover the basic skills needed to begin working in metal (copper, brass, sterling), filing, sanding, finishing, polishing, and most importantly, soldering. We will start with an overview of the different ways to work with precious metals and the various techniques needed to accomplish your project goals. The techniques taught in this workshop are the foundation of precious metal fabrication; building with sheet, wire and other forms of metal stock to make jewelry. Whether you are a complete beginner or more advanced I guarantee you will learn new techniques, pick up a few bench tricks from 35 years of experience and have a great time being creative!
This workshop will be divided into 2 sections – one for complete beginners and the other for those with prior experience.
For beginners I propose one of two possible projects – a ring or pendant with a bezel set cabochon stone. Both these projects require various soldering challenges and fabrication skills. All tools and copper sheet will be provided in class. Sterling silver stock and solder will be available for purchase. Students can bring their own tools and materials they would like to use. Advanced students are encouraged to bring fabrication projects of their own design, and I will work with each person individually to guide them through the necessary steps to produce their piece. At the end of class, we will look at a few different tool and material suppliers, talk about how to identify your needs, and how to place orders efficiently and cost effectively.
Completion of this class will enable students to attend Tuesday evening Open Studio evening at the Mendocino Art Center’s Jewelry/Metals Studio.
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
NANCY GARDNER has been fabricating fine art jewelry in silver and gold for over 35 years. She received her BA in metalsmithing from Buffalo State College during which she spent a year of independent study at SACI – Studio Arts Center International in Florence, Italy. In 1983 she attended AR•CO, the first independent art school in Lisbon, Portugal, where she finalized her degree and completed a master metalsmithing certification. For the two years 2 following graduation she was a metal arts instructor at AR•CO in Lisbon. During her years in Europe, Nancy learned old world techniques from master crafts people and fell in love with the art of metalsmithing.
In 2001 Nancy opened Mendocino Jewelry Studio, Main Street in Mendocino, where she continues to exhibit her original, hand fabricated jewelry along with 12 other prominent local jewelers. Since her arrival to the coast in 1985 Nancy has taught many Jewelry/Metals workshops at the Mendocino Art Center as well as other community colleges and art centers. In 2011 she became coordinator/studio manager of the art center’s Jewelry/Metals department creating a nationally recognized program with renowned instructors from across the country and beyond.
TUITION & FEES
Tuition: $385
MAC studio fee: $30
Materials fee: $45. - optional
To register email Nancy at outlawstudio@mcn.org.
REFUNDS & CANCELLATIONS
Cancellations must be made in writing, either by mail or email. If you notify us at least 14 days prior to the first class meeting, you will receive a refund of tuition less a $45 cancellation fee. No refunds will be made after that date for any reason due to our contractual obligations and material acquisitions. If the Art Center is compelled to cancel a class you will receive a full tuition refund. Memberships are non-refundable as they are considered a donation to the Art Center.