MassArt’s Jewelry and Metalsmithing program combines direct practice with conceptual problem solving, in both traditional and contemporary metal work.
As a Jewelry and Metalsmithing BFA student at MassArt, you’ll explore your own creative practice. Whether you choose to focus on producing jewelry and body adornment, functional objects, or sculptural works, you’ll have access to the resources, facilities, and community support that will help you succeed. You’ll also gain a deep understanding of the history and traditions of metalworking and jewelry that inform today’s makers.
Casting Intensive for Jewelers
With the eyes and hands of a jeweler, this course investigates various casting techniques with non-ferrous metals, including bronze and sterling silver and possibly gold. This course combines tried and true ancient casting methods with state of the art and experimental approaches.
Throughout the semester students create samples, finished pieces, multiples and one of a kind wearables or components for utility. Students are introduced to historical and contemporary examples of cast jewelry, and are encouraged and supported in building their own creative voice through personal research and observation.
Alumni Success
Many Jewelry & Metalsmithing graduates have launched careers as gallery owners, college professors, jewelry designers, jewelers, studio managers, and directors of artist spaces. Among them are:
Jennifer Trask ’93, internationally renowned jewelry and sculpture artist
Lauren Kalman ‘02, internationally renowned concept-based metalsmith
Leslie Shershow ‘06, jewelry artist and professor, writer for Metalsmith Magazine, 2021/2022 Schmuck selected artist
Sophie Hughes ’08, named Best Jewelry Designer by Boston Magazine (2016 & 2017)
Adam Grinovich ‘08, Internationally renowned artist and Penland School of Craft Resident Artist 2024-2025
Monique Rancourt ‘08– Owner of Monique Rancourt Artisan Gallery in Waltham, MA
Alumni Jill Martinelli ’06 and Sabine Le Guyader ’05 co-founded Lady Grey Jewelry, designing jewelry for Beyoncé and other celebrities
Elisa Melegari ‘14 designed an emerald bracelet sported by actress/comedian Whoopi Goldberg to New York Fashion Week 2017.
Brie Flora ‘15, co-owner of The Silver Fern, a gallery and storefront in Cookeville TN
Nanette Pengelley ‘15, Artist and designer, founder of Hew Jewelry
Steven Kaplan-Pistiner
Visiting Lecturer, Jewelry and Metalsmithing- Staff
Tzu-Ju Chen
Visiting Lecturer, Jewelry and Metalsmithing- Faculty
Joyce Kutty
Visiting Lecturer, Fine Arts 3D- Faculty
