Groundworks Art Lab

Upcycling is like, so in right now. This intermediate to advanced level metal class will teach students how to identify and prepare found objects/materials to incorporate into small sculptures. Over the course of eight weeks, students will explore a number of practical skills and techniques in our Metal Studio such as forging/blacksmithing, MIG welding and riveting to alter found objects and create new custom parts for their pieces. 

In conjunction, the class will cover the study of asymmetry and balance in design and concept and will investigate adding a kinetic element by making a simple device for adding wind-driven motion into your sculpture.

This class will build on the basics MIG welding, and as such we require students to have some experience with that particular skill/equipment. 

Additionally, our Metal Studio does have some safety basics before anyone is allowed to join in the fun (failure to meet these requirements will result in not being granted access to the equipment): 

• Please come dressed in close-toe and heel shoes, and natural material clothing, i.e. cotton or linen, and long pants. 
• Sparks fly in this studio, so please wear long sleeves and a shirt that covers your whole chest. We recommend long sleeved button down shirts.
• No loose or dangling jewelry, long earrings or scarves.
• If you have long hair, please have it securely tied back from your face.
• We will provide safety goggles and other PPE, but if you have your own and would like to bring them, please do!

Class Policies & Information:

Open Lab: This class includes access to the studio during Open Lab hours. Open Lab is exclusively for students who are currently enrolled in the program. You are allowed to attend one Open Lab session per week, totaling 3 hours during the duration of your class. You may only attend the Open Lab session for the class in which you are registered. This time is intended for independent work on your class project. While studio staff will be present, they are there to ensure you are using the tools safely, not to provide instruction.

Class Make-Up: Our studios are full with adult and youth classes 7 days a week, 48 weeks a year. Typically, every class is full, which means there is simply no space for students to make up classes. If we cancel an entire class due to weather or other emergencies, we can not guarantee we will be able to schedule a make-up class. Individuals who miss a class will not be able to make it up. Please read the Frequently Asked Questions for more information about missed classes.

Studio Clean Up: Clean-up is critical! Please help our hardworking staff and volunteers by beginning clean-up 30 minutes before the end of class, helping out with common areas, and leaving class on time.

Ages: 16+ 

All supplies and materials will be provided. 

Will be available to register on Monday, July 28 at 8:00am.