Starting out at Richmond, VA

Dear Orchadians,

My husband and I are planning to move to Richmond, VA in August,
2004. I have recently decided that I would like to pursue jewelry.
I have been doing beaded and wire jewelry for the past 3 years. I
do not believe I will be able to work while in VA. I will be on a F2
visa (dependent); my husband will be on a F1 student visa. I hope
to take courses but I am unsure as to whether I’ll be able to take
courses at VCU (part-time). I would like to develop and discover my
own style. I am interested in finding out more about bead making
(lampworking). I am curious about metalsmithing. I have found the
Hand Workshop Art Centre in Richmond and see that they offer
jewellery/glass workshops. Do you know any other possibilities? Do
you know anything about apprenticeships and what is required? Any
other ideas for someone starting out? I would be available to
volunteer my time and energy. I appreciate any ideas you can give
me.

Sincerely,

Sara Smith
112-481 Vaughan Road
Toronto, ON
Canada
@Sara_Smith

Check out the Torpedo Factory in Alexandria, VA, and its associated
Art League. They sometimes offer jewelry classes. And there is a
greater Washington D.C. area bead society, that would be useful to
join, if there is not one closer.

Elaine Luther
Chicago area, Illinois, USA
Metalsmith, Certified PMC Instructor
Studio 925; established 1992
@E_Luther