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File Carving - Virtual Workshop

In this live, online workshop, learn how to master the hand file and add embellishments to your work through decorative filing techniques. Students will explore this deceptively simple tool in depth and will learn about the various types of files out there, their applications, and how to get the most out of their function. Add another notch onto your metalsmithing repertoire through this unique virtual workshop intended for students who have a basic understanding of filing and jewelry practices.

This course will consist of two sessions. There will be a no-class day between each session.

Class will be held live via Zoom during the designated time frame. A link to the Zoom room will be sent via email. 

Each session will be recorded and you will receive a password protected link to the recordings that expire after 30 days.

Please read the Materials & Tools tab! 

Meet the instructor

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William Vanaria is a Massachusetts based artist with a penchant for oddball materials. His work utilizes traditional metalsmithing techniques and a wide verity of non-traditional materials to produce jewelry which both questions and comments on notions of romanticism, value, fakery, and the hierarchy of materials present within modern day consumer culture. Through his work he pushes for a broader system of value which has been formulated though experience, consideration, and critical thinking.

William received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design with a concentration in "Jewelry & Metalsmithing" in 2012. Afterwards, he spent time working within the jewelry industry and volunteering as a teacher's assistant for various art institutions. He found that the latter was much more fulfilling, so he went on to further his education within the arts and to pursue a career in teaching. William received his Masters of Fine Arts degree from the University of Massachusetts: Dartmouth in 2016; once again with a concentration in "Jewelry & Metalsmithing."

Materials & Tools

Students will need to have the following materials in preparation for this online workshop. If you do not already have them, a suggested item and/or a vendor from which you can purchase these items has been provided below. Click the vendor name (in red) to be redirected to a page where you can find or choose the item. The quantities you need for each item are listed first. Please be aware that some items may come in larger quantities than needed for this class. Please order these materials as soon as possible due to longer than usual turn-around times. We recommend not opening the item packaging until the day of the workshop. 

The instructor has recommended sterling silver wire, but if you would prefer to work in a different metal, feel free to do so. Only purchase the suggested items below if you do not already have them. 

Students should bring

You will also want to consider having the following common studio items: 

  • safety glasses
  • flat work surface
  • For those with a rotary hand piece available to them, you may want to have these two items.
    • 1 x pack Dedeco polishing wheels, black, medium (Rio Grande)
    • 1 x nickel-plated 1/16" screw mandrel, 3/32" shank (Rio Grande
 

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