Jewelry & Metalsmithing, BFA

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Jewelry and Metalsmithing  (C10102BFA)

More on the Jewelry and Metalsmithing major

The jewelry and metalsmithing program introduces students to a variety of techniques and processes specific to the field, which allow students to explore a wide range of ideas, objects, images, and modes of making. The curriculum combines art theory, craft history, contemporary issues and personal influences with a wide approach to making and materials. Students refine their skills as they study and create utilitarian and nonfunctional objects, jewelry and metal sculpture.

Purpose

The purpose of the Jewelry & Metalsmithing program is to offer a comprehensive, forward-thinking undergraduate education preparing students for graduate-level study in the field; professional life as a visual artist; and skills in the production/manufacturing field of the jewelry industry. The program aims to provide students with experience in a wide variety of jewelry and metalsmithing processes as well as alternative approaches to materials, processes, and tools to find their own artistic direction through research, experimentation, and practice.

Goals

• To offer students a foundation in traditional and contemporary jewelry making and metalsmithing practices, while also emphasizing conceptual thinking, innovation in design, and refined craftsmanship.
• To encourage students to explore individual directions in contemporary jewelry making, ornamentation, and object making through mixed media exploration, production techniques, and fine jewelry skills.
• To encourage students to understand the implications of the objects and jewelry they make through the larger contexts of art theory, craft history, and contemporary issues in the studio art jewelry field. 
• To give students experience in working with a variety of traditional techniques and processes including silversmithing, hollow form construction, casting, enameling, electroforming, stone setting, and die forming.
• To give students experience at working with a variety of alternative techniques and processes including 3D modeling and printing, laser cutting, powder coating, electroplating, vacuum forming, resin work, and experimentation with other materials that allow students to consider the meaning of materials in our contemporary culture.
• To help students develop creative problem-solving skills, self-motivated studio practice, and a strong work ethic.
• To familiarize students with the major issues and aesthetic approaches of contemporary art and craft disciplines.
• To foster the individual's skills in thinking critically and analytically as a means of evaluating and understanding art made by themselves and other artists.
• To educate students on working safely in all areas of a jewelry and metalsmithing studio.
• To provide students with unique opportunities beyond the scope of traditional classroom learning to both expand upon the education that we offer as well as encourage an appreciation and love of lifelong learning.

Distinctions

Students are presented with a broad range of facilities and opportunities while pursuing their BFA in Jewelry & Metalsmithing such as:

• The Myers School of Art jewelry & Metalsmithing studio is a shared, collaborative environment to which students have 24-hour access. In addition to communal space, studio space is offered to intermediate and advanced level students on a competitive basis.
• Exhibit in shows both within the university and beyond in local, regional, and national venues.
• Participate in the Annual Myers Holiday Shop, Annual Boston Mills ArtFest Akron, Art Museum Holiday Sale, and other local venues.
• Travel to the Biennial Society of North American Goldsmith Conferences.
• Participate in the Akron Jewelry & Metals Club Activities
• Engage with the Akron and Northeast Ohio communities at museums, schools, and community jewelry and metalsmithing events.
• Gain hands-on experience working with visiting artists and local and regional artists in our exciting internship program. 
• Past students have interned with Zenia Lis, Stephen Yusko, Tap Studios, Seth Gould, and Cambridge Jewelers.

The following information has official approval of The Mary Schiller Myers School of Art and The Buchtel College of Arts & Sciences, but is intended only as a supplemental guide. Official degree requirements are established at the time of transfer and admission to the degree-granting college. Students should refer to the Degree Progress Report (DPR) which is definitive for graduation requirements. Completion of this degree within the identified time frame below is contingent upon many factors, including but not limited to: class availability, total number of required credits, work schedule, finances, family, course drops/withdrawals, successfully passing courses, prerequisites, among others. The transfer process is completed through an appointment with your academic advisor.

Students are encouraged to visit the The Mary Schiller Myers School of Art their freshman year to obtain preliminary information regarding the program requirements and to learn more about on-campus opportunities available to students.

Three year accelerated option: for first time students who have earned credits for at least the first year of courses. Credits can be earned through qualifying scores on appropriate Advanced Placement (AP) exams or through College Credit Plus Program (CCP) courses. Credits for qualifying AP scores or CCP courses are determined by the appropriate academic department. Departments may assign varied course credit, depending on the student’s score on an AP exam or grade in a CCP course. Students may also receive credit by examination or via placement tests, where appropriate.

Requirements

Summary

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This major requires a minimum of 125 completed credit hours.

Note: A 2.5 cumulative GPA in all ART courses is required for graduation.

Recommended General Education Courses

College of Arts & Sciences Requirement

Art History Requirements

Foundation Core

Art History Electives

Jewelry and Metalsmithing Requirements

Studio Electives