Looking to try a new medium or hone your creativity? Join this Vital + Creative workshop, for creatives ages 55+, to design and fabricate jewelry and small metal objects using silver, bronze and copper sheet and wire under the direction of master silversmith Art Koeninger. During this two-day class, students learn methods of smithing including sawing, piercing, soldering, riveting, fusing, mill rolling, dapping, forging and bezel stone setting.
Suitable for beginners as well as those with some experience. Class fee includes instruction and use of all tools and supplies, silver, bronze and copper as well as some cabochon stones available at cost. Students may provide their own tools & materials, including stones.
Space is limited; registration required. $150 Class fee; students pay for cost of materials used separately (average project is $5 to $15). Involves moderate physical activity including sawing, sanding and hammering. Short lunch break included—bring a lunch or eat at a nearby cafe. Adults age 55+. Questions? Email rpottebaum@anchoragemuseum.org. Partial scholarships available.
Vital + Creative classes are in-depth explorations of an artistic medium with expert instruction for creatives ages 55+.
About the Instructor
Art Koeninger has studied and created metal jewelry and sculpture since 1966, and has taught jewelry making since 1971. He was an adjunct art instructor for 25 years on various campuses in the University of Alaska system, and since 1978, has performed 18 residencies around Alaska through the Artists-in-Schools program. He owns Spirit Mountain Artworks in Chitina, Alaska, in the historic “Chitina Tin Shop,” which he restored and is now on the National Register of Historic Places. Koeninger currently resides in Homer, where he teaches jewelry making and creates custom jewelry.