Weaving with Metal: New Perspectives on Sheet and Wire
Instructor: Barbara Berk
Friday & Sunday, October 15 & 17 and 22 & 24, 2010
92nd Street Y, New York City
Although traditionally worked with fiber, textile techniques may
also be applied to metal. Working in precious and base metals, the
techniques can be used to create jewelry, sculpture, functional
objects and wall hangings. Through demonstrations, slides,
discussions and hands-on examination, this introductory workshop
presents a variety of weaving and basketry techniques.
Use copper, brass, and aluminum sheet and wire to execute samples of
flat and textured weaves, rectangular and non-rectangular weaves, and
flat and 3-dimensional forms. Explore color, pattern and scale, and
experiment with forming, deforming and manipulating the woven metal.
Participants may choose to expand their library of samples and/or
create finished piece(s). No bench skills are required and all levels
of metal experience are welcome.
Barbara Berk’s handwoven jewelry (www.BarbaraBerkDesigns.com ) in is
the permanent collections of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston and the
Museum of the Gemological Institute of America. Her awards include:
the American Gem Trade Association’s Spectrum Award, the Women’s
Jewelry Association’s Award for Excellence in Design and the Saul
Bell Design Award for jewelry design. Her work is exhibited in
museums and shows across the country and has been featured in many
publications, including Metalsmith, Ornament, and Textile Techniques
in Metal for Jewelers, Textile Artists and Sculptors by Arline Fisch.