Ellen Durkan: Ideas to Reality Through Wearable Art

About this class

This workshop is open for beginner to advanced students. It is focused on teaching
students how to take their ideas into a physical, forged object. The class will cover
forging techniques, technical design layout, order of operations, as well as how to
assemble forged elements. This class is focused on forging a piece of art to
be worn around the neck. The techniques covered in this class transfer to all concept-to-completion projects!

At the beginning of the week, students will focus on practicing the various forging
methods demonstrated. There will be short forging assignments to build the skills
needed to construct and design an individual piece. The rest of the week the
students will design and problem-solve with the guidance of the instructor.

The class will focus on creating balanced symmetry in steel by using repetition of
form, hammer control, material isolation, and movement. Students will design an
object that becomes personal and alive when worn on the body. Demonstrations
will cover various organic design elements, inspired by Ellen Durkan’s personal
work.

This class is open to all levels. Class includes safe shop practices, fire management, efficient hammer techniques, and basic forging. All safety equipment and materials will be provided. 9 AM till 5 PM Monday through Thursday, 9 AM till Noon Friday. Tuition $650

Please Note: A parent, guardian, or responsible adult must be on site for students under 18 years of age for the duration of the class. Adults accompanying minors do not have to take the class, but they are welcome to if they wish.

Coming from out of town? See where to stay, including the Best Western negotiated rate for VIB students.