Students who choose the Jewellery + Metals major explore traditional and contemporary techniques, materials and concerns as they develop their own studio practice.
At the second year level, students acquire small-scale metals skills and design experience in their metals studio course, and hone their drawing and studio photography ability. The techniques of metalsmithing, including large-scale soldering, brazing, raising, chasing, and vessel making are emphasized. Third year students concentrate on technique and on developing samples that demonstrate proficiency in stone setting, casting, chasing, using the lathe, making molds, and using production techniques for making multiples for one-of-a-kind and production situations. Students also learn more about the practical issues of working as a professional in the field. This strong technical background provides the ability to develop an independent artistic direction.
During third year and fourth year, students create sculptural objects, unique jewellery and functional and non-functional objects as either unique items or production multiples, or branch out into activities such as performance or installation. As part of the final year, research is emphasized. Students develop individual studio work and present a major paper or undertake a real world project. Project management, working in teams and volunteer engagement are also emphasized. Throughout the program transferable skills are discussed, and problem solving and creative thinking are fostered. The professional, practicing and internationally renowned faculty provide students with conceptual, creative, critical, and technical support and offer a stimulating variety of perspectives and approaches. Students are encouraged to exhibit their work throughout their studies and to participate in the creative community. A number of visiting artists, both national and international, enrich the program.
Students in all ACAD programs can access individual program requirements within the Academic Calendar, and are responsible for meeting the outlined requirements of their academic program.
The BFA program at the Alberta College of Art + Design is one of Canada’s most prestigious studio-based fine art programs. Graduates from the program create successful and fulfilling careers in Canada and throughout the world as fine artists, scholars, cultural workers, inventors, innovators and entrepreneurs. What programs did they start with, and what did they study?
The Jewellery + Metals Faculty at ACAD wrote the book (literally) on many of the techniques our students use; who better to mentor students in this unique and exciting studio space? ACAD’s Jewellery + Metals Faculty are engaged as professional artists with international reputations, and are global contributors to research and scholarly thought in their field. They are:
- Sarabeth Carnat
- Dee Fontans
- Joan Irvin
- Charles Lewton-Brain (Program Head)
- Shona Rae
- Kurt Tunki (Technician)