TEXTURAL BROOCHES WITH GLASS AND STONES
TODD CONOVER
7th to 9th June 2024
Join us for a three-day jewelry and silversmithing class focused on working with fusedand reticulated sterling silver, setting strategies for unconventional stones, pearls, and crafting custom pin back mechanisms.
Day One covers the basics: you'll learn about tools, materials, and techniques for fusing and reticulating sterling silver. You'll also explore setting odd-shaped stones and pearls to create a sample brooch complete with a handmade sterling silver and spring steel pin
back mechanism.
Day Two is all about your creativity. You'll start your own individual project—whether it's a brooch, pendant, earrings, or another piece—using the skills from day one you'll personalize your design and learn additional techniques to bring your vision to life.
On Day Three, you'll refine your project and focus on perfecting the details or embark on a second creative piece. Throughout the class, you'll receive personalized guidance based on your skill level.
The atmosphere is supportive and collaborative, encouraging you to explore and create. By the end, you'll not only have beautifully crafted jewelry pieces but also a wealth of new skills to apply to future projects.
THE FOLLOWING CANCELLATION FEES WILL APPLY UNLESS WE CAN FILL YOUR SPOT FROM THE WAIT LIST.
$50 CANCELLATION FEE APPLIES TO ALL CANCELLATIONS.
$100 CANCELLATON FEE APPLIES TO CANCELLATIONS UP TO 1 MONTH PRIOR TO CLASS.
NO REFUNDS WILL BE ISSUED FOR CANCELLATIONS 14 DAYS PRIOR TO CLASS.
Bio
My art is an avenue for expressing memories and experiences. Without preconceived concepts, I observe minutiae through my sketchbook and camera, often sparking unforeseen ideas during my explorations. This cycle of conceptual birth, development, and re-birth energizes my creativity.
Discovering metal was unplanned; I collected 20th-century American Arts and Crafts metalwork, studying its design and production. Learning that centuries-old techniques persisted fascinated me, leading me to experiment with obscure hand metalworking methods. Integrating metal into my fashion design background felt natural, offering a new medium akin to fabric's fluidity.
Transitioning from collecting metal objects to creating them , I channeled my energy into producing unique jewelry. Drawing inspiration from nature, my bold pieces emphasize material and surface. Incorporating diverse materials—gems, glass, rock, and patina techniques—injects color and character.
Moreover, I experiment with raw textures, adding authenticity and interest. My jewelry is the convergence of unexpected mediums, showcasing both metal's malleability and fabric's fluidity. This fusion encapsulates my artistic evolution, fusing nature-inspired design with material exploration.
