Question--
I reside in the US and want to take up jewellery designing as a hobby.
Could you recommend a few good schools?
Thanks.
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Followup To
Question -
I am interested in jewellery designing. Could you advice me on the recommended schools, tuition, duration of the course, etc.
Thank You Much.
Answer -
Hi Jascha!
Not kowing in hwat country you live, I can hardly rcommedn a specific school. What I do advise is to be clear within yourself if you want to make it a hobby or a career. If you just want to learn as a hobby, I suggest taking a community-school class. Teachers are uysually much more patient and helpful, and will let you take all your time to learn and practice. As for duration, practice in such a school for at least a year before going on your own.
As for a professionnal career, avoid univeristy level. Try professional programs in high schools.
But here's the real advice: to help you make your choice, find a little private jewellery store, owned by a sweet old man, and ask to spend a little time there as an apprentice. He will first teach you to clean jewels, and maybe work with clients. You will surprised how much you will learn about yourself. as well as the network you can establish in that field. So just 2 or 3 hours a week, maybe voluntarily.
Hope I helped. If you'd like to know somehting a little more precise, don't hesitate to write again, and please be as specific as you can.
Good luck!
AnswerHi again Jascha!
As I said, avoid college-type classes if you're only focus is as a hobby. In most states you will find Arts and Crafts workshops, given either from specialty schools or from community centers. They usually take from 3 to five days, and rannge from 75$ to 250$. They are the warmest and fastest initiations to the arts, given usually by semi-retired artists who really do enjoy sharing theur own passions.
I personnally attended the 'Fletcher Farm School' in Vermont, for a 5-day course in drawing and carving to help me create my pieces. If you live in the New England area, that IS the one I can vouch for. Otherwise, your best ressource to find such a program in tour area is this little website
http://art.shawguides.com/
Very easy to browse, very comprehensive ressource to find a community-type course.
Hope you find you are looking for.
And also hope to see one of you pieces in a lcoal store someday!
Take Care
