Department of Art
Explore Jewelry and Metal Arts
Explore Metalsmithing Courses
View thesis projects that showcase the creativity, research and artistic vision of students in UAF's BFA and MFA programs.
See how a UAF metalsmithing alum transformed a deeply personal story into an award-winning work exhibited in galleries across Spain.
I signed up for [a metalsmithing class] and totally loved it. I had never even thought about doing it before. I took metal smithing for many semesters and then switched to sculpture, too, and just really was amazed at the diversity of materials and processes and everything that happened throughout those years..."Christen Booth '23 B.F.A., Art
Metalsmithing students progress through three levels of studio instruction, building skills from basic fabrication to advanced metalworking techniques. Beginning students learn sawing, soldering, stone setting and finishing. Intermediate courses introduce casting, toolmaking and cold connections, while advanced students explore forging, enameling, foldforming, mokume gane, reticulation and experimental materials. Throughout the curriculum, students strengthen both technical ability and creative problem-solving as they develop original work.
Metalsmithing students learn from faculty and adjunct instructors who are active artists and creative professionals. Through mentorship, critique and hands-on studio instruction, students develop technical skills, creative confidence and a personal artistic voice while exploring traditional and contemporary metalsmithing techniques.
Metalsmithing students share their work through exhibitions, public showcases and special projects. Students are encouraged to participate in the annual Student Invitational Exhibition and Juried Student Exhibition, gaining valuable experience presenting their work and connecting with the broader artistic community.
3 Credits Offered Fall and Spring
This hands-on course introduces fundamental concepts and organization of three-dimensional forms, including applied art and industrial design. Various materials such as wire, clay, silicone, and paper are explored. This course is recommended for students becoming B.A. or B.F.A. Art majors and students interested in exploring material manufacturing processes.
Attributes: UAF Degree Humanities Req
Basic techniques of fine metalsmithing and jewelry.
Further investigation of material processes and techniques; some emphasis on design.
Prerequisites: ART F209. Attributes: UAF Degree Humanities Req
Materials and processes; introduction to holloware skills and forging. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
Prerequisites: ART F309. Attributes: UAF Degree Humanities Req
3 Credits Offered Spring Odd-numbered Years
This class provides a foundation of practical information for students as they begin to consider various career options in the visual arts. Topics include documentation, websites, promotion and description, exhibit installation methods, marketing, developing application materials for residencies and grants, as well as issues of health and safety.
Prerequisites: Junior standing. Stacked with ART F688.
1-6 Credits Offered As Demand Warrants
Exploration of selected topics in metalcraft with lectures, demonstrations, independent research and production of metalcraft at a level commensurate with graduate standing. May be repeated for credit.
Prerequisites: Graduate standing.
Your generous donations give our metalsmithing department the opportunity to do some amazing things! Support art at UAF by donating below.
Patricia Carlson
Adjunct Instructor in Metalsmithing
Ready to create? Apply to UAF and develop your artistic practice while working alongside faculty and fellow artists.
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