Frequently Asked Questions For Prospective Metalsmithing Students

I am an art and design major but not sure of declaring my area of concentration as metalsmithing because I have little or no experience. What should I do?

Take an entry-level course and see if you are as interested and enthusiastic as your expected to be. Most metalsmithing majors had no hands on experience in a professional studio environment until their first class. It is assumed that you know very little about materials and processes, therefore we start with foundation information and build upon that each semester.

Do I need to have my own tools for each class offering?

NO. In many course offerings you check out a tool kit at the beginning of the semester that will assist you in our studio or take it home to your own.
In other courses students check out tools on a need basis for an hour or a full day from an office open whenever the building is open for studio work.

We try to provide all tools and equipment necessary to fulfill the assignments - you are not required to purchase tools or equipment throughout your undergraduate study.

You can expect to purchase consumables such as drill bits, rotary abrasives, burrs, and polishing accessories.

What jobs will I locate in my fields upon graduating with a metalsmithing concentration?

We stress the importance of acquiring diverse skills throughout your program of study. With refined skills you locate employment in the fields of Jewelry, Blacksmithing, Welding, Production Casting, Foundry and Sheet Metal Fabrication.

Many students develop studio artwork and production techniques focused on marketing their products for sale at art fairs, gift shops and galleries.
We encourage students to learn what they need to know to do what they want to do. You have four years to acquire the skills, attitude and experience you need to succeed.

Is the metalsmithing concentration too physically demanding or dangerous for an inexperienced student?

You will never know until you try! No one has ever left the program for those reasons if they desired to succeed. To survive as a metalsmithing major you must like to work, be in the studio and be self-motivated. Many processes are labor intensive, however not dangerous or overwhelming. Techniques and safety procedures are thoroughly covered before every assignment.

What is the emphasis in metalsmithing: Jewelry Making, Blacksmithing, or Hollowware?

Students are required to take courses in a diverse spectrum of metalsmithing technologies. Having a broad understanding of foundation metal courses prepares students with unique problem solving techniques. Throughout four years of study you will gather new information on materials and properties that will effect your studio production. All students experience the same courses but choose to explore specific areas to meet their interest. Everyone blends the information differently and takes on an identity or focus unique to the individual.

On an average, how many majors are in the metalsmithing program?

The number varies from a low of 12 to a high of 25. Any year could be somewhere in between. My upper level class has 10-15 students each semester allowing for plenty of one on one contact time. The studios are open a minimum of 80 hours a week outside of class to work on assignments.

Are the materials I am required to work with expensive?

Silver and gold are expensive!!! However, you are not required to work with them. All work can be constructed from metal other than silver and gold for a fraction of the cost and an equal learning experience.