Becoming a Metalsmith in 2021
In our present world, we have information at our fingertips and most times we are flooded with ideas on what to build in adornment and jewelry.
We receive endless information from market research and blogs telling us what platform to sell through, what designs, gems, styles, colors, and shapes will do well this season. We are spoon fed ideas for our jewelry through visuals such as YouTube, Pinterest and Instagram.
In the classroom, we are told what to build and how to build, which paint colors to use, which gauges of metal to use, everything we in a project. We can see ahead of time how beautiful the finished product will look with a little instructional work. We are handed exact formulas for "success".
No risk, no investment, no waste of time, materials or energy. This process is safe, super safe and sound. Nice…perfect, even.
Except that you are not really investing in creative energy and authenticity to grow as a person, an artist, creator, and visionary.
What if you had the opportunity to be put into an uncomfortable position in order to become highly intentional in your building of jewelry?
What if you really dug in deep and put your real self on the table along with your heart for true self-expression of your work?
What if your work could be so amazing and unique that it would stand out and could be identified above all others as YOUR work. How would this sound? And how can this be possible?
Creatively Invent Your Own Process Through This Course.
I have been teaching live creative workshops through the medium of metals, silver jewelry and adornment for over a decade. During this time I’ve observed and learned very impactful information for me to help students grow their real personal work over the years.
I found that when I held a safe space for students as a whole and in a group for a period of time and allowed for the messy space of mistakes and growth that comes along with exploring and creating, I witnessed students shining their true selves outward, building from their heart and soul.
The manner of getting at your real self and authentic work is a discipline to quiet or slow down external noise and visuals that are a constant bombardment. This noise is constantly diluting our core beliefs and twisting our true ideas of who you are until it is almost impossible to determine who you really are and what gift of creativity you really have to offer the world. You will be blindly pushed forward into the world with a gathering of someone else’s thoughts and ideas. The effort to find your own personal work and expression will prove to be difficult. An artist must have their own expression to be able to contribute to the world and make a difference.
For the first time ever I've put together an online course that encompasses my philosophy and covers all of the techniques used in my work. Intentional Metalsmithing is a master silversmithing course. Over six modules, you'll have a front-row seat to watch me teach over 30 of my most coveted techniques.
Risk, exploration, sweat, uncertainty, and grief, how do these qualities and words sound? This is exactly what is necessary to help grow you as a person and an artist.
Through these qualities you will finally reach exhilaration for completion and understanding and gain confidence and self-esteem. Intentional Metalsmithing will push you towards real authenticity as you work.
Intentional Metalsmithing
Teaching Creativity Through the Medium of Metal and Jewelry Adornment
With a love of yoga and a passion for adornment, Master silversmith Susan Lenart shares her decades of experience and knowledge in the six modules of Intentional Metalsmithing. Susan holds nothing back as she gives you the techniques she uses in all of her work. Susan's work has been seen all over the world in museums, Milan Jewelry Week, magazines, and, of course, the amazing community of women she's touched over the years.
Whether you're a complete beginner or have a background in metalsmithing, this course is unlike any other metalsmithing lesson plan on the market. Intentional Metalsmithing is more than a simple guided learning course. It is an entire lifestyle that will show you how to mine your creative depths while teaching you fundamental techniques, AND ensure a body of work that is set apart from the cookie-cutter competition in metalsmithing.
Inside Intentional Metalsmithing:
Step-by-Step Instructions
Each module contains a full-length video filmed by a professional camera crew detailing the highlighted techniques of the module. The videos also contain
Bonus Projects
Short Bonus Videos with additional inspirational illustrating the learned techniques and pushing you to go deeper with your newfound skills.
Meditations
Intentional Metalsmithing pushes you to treat your art as more than a hobby, and to fully immerse yourself into the lifestyle. This content strengthens your mind and is a vitally important part of becoming a silversmith.
Private Facebook Group + Monthly Q&A
Gain Access to Susan's intimate Facebook Group where you'll meet likeminded individuals on the same road as you. Develop your network as a jewelr, make friends for life!
Lifetime Access
Lifetime access to the videos and content from Intentional Metalsmithing, no limits on views and no timed views. Look back on your favorite techniques over and over again until you've mastered them.
Much More!
Susan is currently giving away even more content with her course, including an upcoming PDF of Intentional Metalsmithing the book and her starter video the Alchemy of Soldering. Don't wait until these items move past the promotional phase!
I am not saying that it is easy, but it is real and rewarding beyond belief and will lead you to an amazing awakening. This course entails a process of undoing the old and the inauthentic to get at your real core beliefs and authenticity. I will show how to only build from who you are and what you believe in. To express yourself through your medium of metal and jewelry adornment. To build as an artist you must be able to shine outward onto your canvas or metal platform your own beautiful inside beliefs and individuality. Show it to the world!
A Warm Welcome from Susan:
Intentional Metalsmithing contains six modules of video training.
6 Modules
14 Lessons
Like taking photos? So do I! Let's create some killer visuals.
11h Instructional Video
Module 1: Bezels Expanded
Description:
How to use decorative wire and sterling silver to create unique, layered bezels.
After Alchemy of Soldering, this module dives deeper into the beautiful layered bezels that are a signature of Susan's work. Using Decorative wire and sterling silver, you'll create unique layered pieces. The projects in this module include: a five-stone ring and a hanging crystal point.
Module 2: Forging and Building with Wire
How versatile wire can be! Learn to draw a bead, make nail heads, create wraps, & hammer flat in several bangle projects. Bonus: pendant!
This is another foundational module where Susan teaches you safety in forging wire on an anvil as well as drawing a bead and making a nailhead. You practice these techniques by making a series of bangles.
Module 3: Caging an Object
When bezels just don't cut it! Learn how to cage any object. Plus- learn to make Susan's signature ladder-style adjustable ring band.
Not every treasure fits in a bezel. This module is for those of us who have stones and precious talismans we'd like to see from all angles. The projects in this module include caging a geode, creating a ladder-style adjustable ring band, and creating a cage component.
Module 4: Links & Attachments
Susan shows you many types of links and how to add movement to your pieces. Also, closures like a french hook and end-caps for leather choker. She also goes over closures like french hooks and toggles.
Module 5: The Hollow Form
No matter which shape speaks to you, you'll be able to build a box after this course. Susan creates large and small hollow prayer boxes. She shows adding prayers inside your box and setting a bezel on top.
Susan uses hollow forms in everything from rings to earrings and all shapes and sizes. The prayer box is one of her favorite components.
Module 6: Scrap & Finishing
Susan shows how to make amazing bezels and ringbands using all the scrap from previous projects. Using scrap to create balls and pressing into shot plates. Also - making granulation and adding it to box.
When you're creating sterling silver jewelry, you end up with lots of scraps. In this module, you get great ideas on using scrap for unique bezels and ringbands. Susan also teaches you melting scrap down to create and mount granulation on the sides of hollow forms as well as use in shot plates. Lots of ways to finish your projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Level of Experience Do I Need to Have for This Course?
How Much Time Do I Need to Set Aside for This Course?
What Supplies Will I Need to Purchase?
When Does the Course Start?
Is There a Payment Plan?
What Does Lifetime Access Mean?
Ready for Your Artistic Journey to Start?
NOW ONLY $997
With over two decades of teaching experience, Susan is currently offering Intentional Metalsmithing at a flat-rate of $997. Don't wait for the price to rise! At the cost of a designer handbag, expand your journey as a silversmith and break new ground as an artist.
Compare to In-Person Workshops with Susan:
See What Students Are Saying About Intentional Metalsmithing:
CHRISTINE RIO - INTENTIONAL METALSMITHING GRADUATE #IMGRADSLK
"As an emerging self-taught jewelry designer who has shown work at Artistar Jewels/Milan Jewelry Week, I was looking for direction to become more spontaneous in design and more confident in my place in the jewelry world. Wanting to create larger/wilder pieces and use a bigger torch. Since taking Intentional Metalsmithing with Susan Lenart, I've learned so much about flame control and how to safely build bigger pieces without melting everything. I'm becoming more confident in incorporating unusual found items in my work. I'm happier now taking the time to design something that really speaks to me without worrying about whether or not there is a customer for it. If you believe in your work, there will always be someone who notices and will support you with a purchase.
I gravitate towards raw stones and unusual shapes, learning how to cage such objects in dimensional, architectural rings was life-changing. It has opened so many possibilities for future works. I will say too, all the bangles I've done - the nailheads, the forging - they're addictive! Such a great way to satisfy a quick creative urge when you just need to release some stress with a hammer. Experiment. There are so many ways to make jewelry - just play and try new things to find your passion in metalsmithing.
Being someone who is self-taught, there is a lot you can learn on your own, but the knowledge gained from taking even just a few classes is exponential - all the little insider tips that makes working more streamlined and successful. For me - learning fabrication - creating with silver and really getting to know it's capabilities through the whole working process was a huge step."
Instagram: @slatejewelry
Website: https://www.slatejewelry.com
MELANIE DOOLEY - INTENTIONAL METALSMITHING GRADUATE #IMGRADSLK
"I was curious and hesitant to take Susan Lenart’s Intentional Metalsmithing course, but I was feeling creatively blocked and decided this was something I needed to do. I have become so inspired, enabled, and ambitious since taking this course! My favorite technique has been creating nailheads! Take the opportunity to learn from the Intentional Metalsmithing course and its numerous techniques so you can step out of your boundaries and free your creative spirit. Even mistakes are learning opportunities."
Instagram: @empiredetalaru
NICOLE ST. LAURENT - INTENTIONAL METALSMITHING GRADUATE #IMGRADSLK
"I am a mother and clay artist. Since taking Susan’s Intentional Metalsmithing, I am a mother and “the bomb” that can build with metal and fire!
Module 1 - bezels expanded, was my favorite module. I was so excited to start this course and to finally be fulfilling my dream to be a metalsmith. Intentional Metalsmithing has taught me about different soldering techniques, flame length and temperatures to use while working with the different solders, sizes of wire, and layers of metal.
I highly suggest wearing a good mask while working. Have patience with yourself and don't feel silly asking questions."
IG: @ravensmeadow
facebook.com/ravensmeadow
JULIE CALL PIKE - INTENTIONAL METALSMITHING GRADUATE #IMGRADSLK
"When I first started to make jewelry, I didn't know the difference between a bezel and a bail. I started out making mixed media photo jewelry using base metal frames and Ice Resin after watching Susan's videos on Youtube. I first met Susan in person by attending her Art Unraveled classes in Phoenix. After welcoming us to class, her first focus was to help us with a little exercise in taking cleansing breaths and preparing mentally for the day. I didn't know at the time what a great example that was for me to clear my mind and focus on the art I was about to create!
I have LOVED being a part of the Intentional Metalsmithing Movement! I feel very blessed to have been able to take these courses. The classes are PACKED with wonderful techniques and examples. One of the great things about an online course is having the ability to watch sections over and over and finding new material you might have overlooked. These classes are for ALL levels of metalsmithing. I believe that my eyes have been opened to new and exciting directions in metalsmithing. Susan taught me that there are no mistakes, just new possibilities.
I very much enjoy making the prayer boxes, module 5, marking them inside with positive words and closing them up.My advice for someone starting out in metalsmithing is to enjoy the process of learning and experimenting. Lose yourself in creative development, and leave the worries of the day. You don't need to run out and buy a bazillion tools, just add tools as you can. Enjoy the art of others, and use it as inspiration in helping you develop your own unique talents and style."
Instagram: @RibbonTapestrybyJuliePike
Website: Ribbon Tapestry by Julie Pike
JENNIFER MOONFLOWER SILVER - INTENTIONAL METALSMITHING GRADUATE #IMGRADSLK
"In January 2020 I started my business, ShaadoKash. Around the same time, I discovered Susan Lenart’s Intentional Metalsmithing and it changed my entire trajectory. This past year has been the biggest year of growth, expansion, exploration for me. I met many challenges and tests of courage to continue to step into the great unknown towards my divine calling. I have never felt more connected to myself, my creative fire and even my spirit guides than I do today after diving into mentorship with Susan. I am so grateful for this journey.
I have made my way through the first 3 modules, but most of the techniques I have used in my craft can be attributed to the inspiration from Module One – Bezels Expanded. I am looking forward to finishing the course - but I have been busy every day with custom orders and it lights me up.
If you have an interest starting this metalsmithing journey, start before you feel ready. There is an art to metalsmithing that is an unfolding mastery. There is no end game or perfection. Wherever you are in this moment is the perfection. I just celebrated ONE full year of self-employment with my business, ShaadoKash, specializing in making custom Mystical + Medicine jewelry."
Instagram: @theshaadokash
Ready to get started?
Buy Now"The manner of getting at your real self and authentic work is a discipline to quiet or slow down external noise and visuals that are a constant bombardment.
This noise will surely dilute your core beliefs and twist your true ideas of who you are until it is almost impossible to determine who you really are and what gift of creativity you really have to offer the world.
Too often we are blindly pushed into the world with a gathering of someone else’s thoughts and ideas. An effort to find your own personal work and expression may prove to be difficult.
An artist must have their own expression to be able to contribute to the world and make a difference. "
- Susan Lenart
Did you know you can set up a portable soldering station for about $250?
Susan Lenart loves to travel so her soldering station is easy to pack. This means this particular set-up is IDEAL for new jewelry designers with limited space and using a butane torch means no expensive air filtration needed.
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Honoring Jewelry In Its Original State
Visually exploring jewelry through adornment and dance is at the core of all of my current work. I build vibrationally charged wearable art which I call Talismans and my current line is brimming with this energy. My work embodies light, love and joy in our world through specific combinations of symbols, gems and unusual objects. I build large, bold expressive jewelry to be worn and expressed in its natural state through movement, dance, sound, and performance.
"My work has always been considered unusual and drawn attention in one way or another throughout my career. Through my work, I have done fashion runways, fashion magazines, museum tours, commercial lines of jewelry, one of a kind pieces with American craft council and more.
Being in art school I learned to put myself and my work out into the public eye and open for critique. In art school, your work is subject to be examined by more than 20 or so people on a regular basis, who are encouraged to dig into the fine details of symbolism and what your piece appears to be saying.
I found that when viewing a piece as an artist, every piece, material, objects, word, material is representational and translated as Symbolism and the meaning of what the creator intended is uncovered.
In art school, jewelry making was considered a craft and beneath the skills of an artist. We were not allowed to learn to sew or solder jewelry or do anything practical because we, as artists were not supposed to build the pieces but rather create ideas of finished product. We were imagined to be able to hire people for the menial labor that I have so come to love. If you build a fine piece and it has a use, it is considered Craft, if a piece is built to elicit an emotional response and is just built for this reason it is considered an art form. I come about the idea of jewelry building as an artist building a craft as adornment."
- Susan Lenart
Coming Soon: Intentional Metalsmithing (book)
Get a free PDF of Susan's upcoming book Intentional Metalsmithing when you buy the course with no upsell.
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