Course number: 2341
Course title: Jewelry and Metals I
Semester hours: 3
Foundational Component Area
1. The course “focus[es] on the appreciation and analysis of creative artifacts and works of the human
imagination.”
Jewelry and Metals differs from Sculpture I but is much the same. The distinguishing difference is that it
can and does cater to students with different temperaments. A meticulous art by nature suits certain
students better than the larger scale more loosely oriented execution that takes place in Sculpture I.
Jewelry and Metals I is the introduction to how art is made. From antiquity to present, artist’s processes
and tools have changed. These changes have had a pronounced effect on the linear development of art.
Students enrolled in Jewelry and Metals learn to identify and utilize tools and equipment that are
necessary in the production of art. Students must learn the terminology related to design and process.
Students must also develop a recognition and understanding of various artist methodologies to enhance
both their own thinking about their art as well as to strengthen their own design process.
Students enrolled in Jewelry and Metals are exposed to and taught to identify the various processes that
are necessary to produce art work and how these processes have evolved over time.
Jewelry and Metals I students are exposed to and taught to identify the wide variety of mediums that
encompass works from artifacts to contemporary artwork and how these mediums have evolved with
technology.
Without the ability and understanding of the above, students will not have the capability to fully
appreciate, analyze or execute works of art.
2. The course “involve[s] the synthesis and interpretation of artistic expression and enable[s] critical,
creative, and innovative communication about works of art.”
To understand the synthesis and interpretation of artistic expression it is imperative that students gain
an understanding of the information mentioned above.
Students enrolled in Jewelry and Metals I begin to develop and advanced understanding of the synthesis
and interpretation of artistic expression through lecture, shop orientation and the actual use of the tools
and equipment utilized in making art.
Core Objectives
A. Critical Thinking, Aspect 1: “Students will demonstrate creative thinking, innovation.”
Students enrolled in Jewelry and Metals I are introduced to creative thinking and innovation in a number
of ways. The responsibility of the conceptualization of their pieces directly challenges their ability to do
both. Innovation is directly related to the execution phase of the work itself. The conceptualization of
the art objects they intend to produce addresses creative thinking. (See Appendix A)
B. Critical Thinking, Aspect 2: “Students will demonstrate effective inquiry strategies.”
Students must utilize inquiry and take into consideration lecture information as well as their own
research. They must determine through inquiry material selection, the preferred process and proper
tool selection. (See Appendix A)
C. Communication, Aspect 1: “Students will demonstrate effective development, interpretation, and
expression of ideas through written communication.”
Jewelry and Metals I students do achieve the effective development of interpretation and the
expression of ideas.
Students are exposed to a wide variety of tools, equipment and machinery that is used in the making of
all types of art. They learn how to make smart/correct choices in tool selection for the art they are
making. They begin to understand when viewing art, not just a time period or who did it, but how it was
made as well. This is crucial in making an accurate assessment of art. Students are taught academic
research skills and how to find and use scholarly resources. Written assignments and class critiques
teach the student to verbally describe a piece of art. (See Appendix B)
D. Communication, Aspect 2: “Students will demonstrate effective development, interpretation, and
expressions of ideas through oral communication.”
Students are expected to orally defend and elaborate their decisions regarding concept, material
selection, and execution of their art work. This is done both in one on one interaction with their
professor as well as in group critiques with their classmates. (See Appendix C)
Teamwork
D. The course teaches “the ability to consider different points of view and to work effectively with
others to support a shared purpose or goal.”
Jewelry and Metals I is the epiphany of teamwork. Students work side by side in a shop environment
sharing and using the tools equipment and machinery. Students cast objects that require them to work
together for an end result. Students are often called on by one another for assistance or if you will, a
second set of hands. Also they work together in the organization and cleaning of the workspace.
Jewelry and Metals I students are responsible for exhibiting their work in a professional gallery at the
ending of each semester to be viewed by the public. They are responsible for installation and developing
an understanding as to how placement and lighting can make for a desired presentation. (See Appendix
C)
Social Responsibility
7. The course teaches “intercultural competence, knowledge of civic responsibility, and the ability to
engage effectively in regional, national and global communities.”
Students in Jewelry and Metals I are exposed to works from varied cultures and time periods which
engenders knowledge and recognition of many different political, religious and social viewpoints.
Specifically, students are engaged group critiques and discussion of the effect of art in the public sphere
by arguing the benefits or deficiencies of specific works of public art on both a local and international
level.
Students in Jewelry and Metals are exposed to works from varied cultures and time periods which
engenders knowledge and recognition of many different political, religious and social viewpoints.
Specifically, students are engaged group critiques and discussion of the effect of art in the public sphere
by arguing the benefits or deficiencies of specific works of public art on both a local and international
level. (See Appendix C)
Jewelry and Metalworking I Appendix A:
Metal Fabrication Assignment:
You will be required to utilize creative thinking to create and make a metal object such as a bookmark,
cuff bracelet, pair of ear rings, money clip broach etc…
You must first learn certain basic metalworking techniques such as using the jewelers saw, the creation
and use of templates, silver soldering and various finishing methods to name a few. This requires
analysis and synthesis on your part.
You will need to consider the various materials available and what would best suit your design.
Once these basics are covered, you will begin the execution of your design.
Jewelry Project (Metal Design and Fabrication)
Skills
>Template creation and use
>sawing
>soldering
>stone setting
>polishing
Concept options
Belt Buckle
Pendant/Necklace
Bookmark
Cuff bracelet OR a bracelet comprised of metal elements
Tools
Hand: Jewelers saw, files; flex shat rotary tool + attachments, Bonny Doon Press, Drill Press
Layout
Cardstock, exacto knife, printer, pencil, cutting matt,
Soldering
Third Hand and small tweezers solder pick, silver solder, flux, pickle, acetylene torch
Materials
Metals in various gauges for dominate shape and mounts choose from (mild steel, brass sheet, copper
sheet, nickel silver sheet, sterling silver sheet
Settings for stones
Gems or stones
Finishing /Polishing
Files, various attachments for flex shaft, polishing machine, soft buffs, Tripoli, red rouge, tumbler, pickle
OVER>
Coloration Patina, torch fired enamel
Those of you interested in torch fire enameling look into the process. You Tube has some pretty good
“how to “videos. Look for artist Barbara Lewis. She also has a book available.
Assessment will be as listed I the form below.
Jewelry and Metals I Appendix B:
Critique Paper
For the Visual Artist inquiry does mean writing but it also means analysis and synthesis. Students are
required to “look” at art and relate the art to the artist who did it. In doing so, they begin to build a
“visual” image bank that fosters both inspiration and understanding of what they are currently doing
and ultimately plan to do.
For example, in the culinary arts one “develops a pallet” in the visual arts one develops “an eye”.
Students enrolled in this course are encouraged to take museum visits in the Dallas, Ft. Worth
metroplex. They are also encouraged to visit galleries. These trips and exposure to various art forms
serves to enlighten and inspire thus increasing their capability to analyze and synthesize the various art
forms from different periods and cultures.
Students are required to visit and check out books in the library. This serves to strengthen their visual
understanding and their ability to incorporate art terminology as they learn to engage in dialogue about
art.
Students are encouraged to attend gallery openings to view as well as see the business side of art.
Assignment:
Write an 800 word critique paper after visiting the student exhibit. You may choose one or more works.
Consider through your analysis of the art what works, and if appropriate, what does not work. Consider
the synthesis of composition, material selection and how these choices ultimately convey the concept of
the artwork(s).
Jewelry and Metals I Appendix C:
The conceptualization and Execution of the Art Object
You are required to produce art work of your own creation. In this process it will be necessary to inquire
about material selection, aesthetics and process. There can potentially be upward to 50 hours per
student per semester of dialogue between student and professor regarding the execution of their
various art works.
You are encouraged to engage in dialogue with one another regarding design choices, concept and
aesthetics.
You are required to explain and defend your art work utilizing Visual Art terminology during individual
and group critiques.
You are encouraged to engage in dialogue with one another regarding the above.
To whom it may concern: I have been teaching at the college level for 14 years and find this to be one of
the most valuable and challenging assignments for students. Typically they have very little to no capacity
to perform this very valuable capability; public speaking. Whether the arts or in life after college, if
students are unable to communicate orally, particularly when personal emotions are on the line, they are
far less likely to best succeed at any level.
Assignment: Write an 800 word essay that critiques one of your recent artworks that applies each
question below.
USEFUL QUESTIONS FOR LEARNING TO UNDERSTAND THE VISUAL LANGUAGE OF ART
1. What is my first response?
Ten words that first come into your mind
Trust your responses – they will tell you more than you realize about the work and about
yourself.
2. What is being represented?
Reality/Dream/Fantasy/Abstraction, Past/Present, Self/Other
Some combinations of these
3. What clues to meaning have been provided?
How much naming can I do?
Subject matter
Title
Symbolism/Allegory/Metaphor
Quotations
4. What are the formal codes? How are the following elements handled? What can you deduce
from these choices?
Composition
Highly organized or Random
Surface and Edge
Texture
Inviting or repellent?
Color
Flat or used to evoke volume and/or space? Emotional
correspondences?
Line
Movement
Space
Light
Proportion
Scale
For clarity or ambiguity?
Is it produced or required?
Affirmed or denied?
Is the manipulation of light an important factor?
Is the relationship of elements within the image “realistic” or
“distorted”?
What is the Scale to the viewer or its environment?
Is there Harmony or Dissonance? Is there Tension or Balance?
5. What is the point of view?
Literally (i.e. Spatially)/Where is the viewer? Where is the artist? Whose point of view do we
share?
Figuratively What is the artist’s attitude toward the subject matter? Ironic? Reverent?
Subversive?
What role is assigned to the viewer? Witness? Judge?
6. What is the tone?
Intellectual and/or didactic
Emotional and/or illogical
Reasonable or aggressive
Self-assured or tentative
Subtle or overt
Meditative, contemplative
7. What is the intended response?
Pleasure/Sympathy/Agreement/Shock/Distance/Alienation/Humor/Irony
8. When and how was the work made?
Historical references. How does the work function in the present? Viewer should do some
homework. (What more do I need to know?)
9. Where was the work intended to be seen?
Public/Private
Home/Gallery/Museum
What is the influence of patronage? Size or materials or subject matter sometimes provide
clues.
10. What decisions have been made?
What has been exchanged/risked/added/deleted from conventional attitudes?
Innovation vs. Tradition. Is a distinctive style or signature apparent?
11. Are there similarities and differences from on work to another?
12. What similarities and differences with the work of other artists? Other periods?
Understanding is not “spontaneous.” It requires concerted effort. Our understanding is conditional
on a multitude of factors, many outside our control, many imposed by the immediacy of our needs.
Assignments: Group and Individual Critiques
Students are required to orally explain and defend their art work. They are required to analyze and
synthesize art terminology, design elements, material selection and concepts (both academic and
personal) during individual and group critiques while applying it orally to their own, as well as, their
peers work.
Assessment will be as listed in the form below.
NORTH CENTRAL TEXAS COLLEGE
COURSE SYLLABUS
The North Central Texas College (NCTC) Course Syllabus provides the following as required by the Texas Higher
Education Coordinating Board (THECB): (1) a brief description of the course including each major course
requirement, assignment and examination; (2) the learning objectives for the course; (3) a general description of
the subject matter of each lecture or discussion; and (4) any required or recommended readings. Contact
information for the instructor is also provided. The Course Syllabus also provides institutional information to
indicate how this course supports NCTC’s purpose and mission. Information specific to a particular section of the
course will be included in the Class Syllabus and distributed to enrolled students.
Course Title: Jewelry & Metalworking I
Course Prefix & Number: ARTS2341
Section Number: 100
Term Code: 112S
Semester Credit Hours: 3
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 64
Course Description (NCTC Catalog): Design, construction and forming of metals and various
metals using basic techniques.
Course Prerequisite(s): Suggested Design I, Design II, Drawing I
Course Type:
 - Academic General Education Course (from Academic Course Guide Manual but not in NCTC Core)
- Academic NCTC Core Curriculum Course
 - WECM Course
Name of Instructor:
Campus/Office Location:
Telephone Number:
E-mail Address:
James M. Staples (Jimmy)
1306B Visual Arts Department, Gainesville, Texas
940-668-7731, Ext 4480
Cell 903-651-3195
jstaples@nctc.edu
Name of Department Chair:
Office Location:
Telephone Number:
E-mail Address:
James M. Staples
1306B Visual Arts Department, Gainesville, Texas
940-668-7731, Ext 4480
jstaples@nctc.edu
REQUIRED OR RECOMMENDED COURSE MATERIALS
REQUIRED TEXT: McCreight, Tim. The Complete Metalsmith Professional Edition. Brynmorgen
Press, 2004. ISBN 1-929565-05-4
RECOMMENDED TEXT: Vonneumann. Design and Creation of Jewelry, 3rd edition. Chilton Book
Company, 1982. ISBN: 9780801970672.
You are expected to research media and processes related to your interest.
Supply List:
1. Sketchbook
2. Cutting Mat
3. Masking tape
4. Safety glasses
5. Tool box/fishing tackle box
6. X-acto knife with a lot of extra blades
COURSE REQUIREMENTS, EVALUATION METHODS AND GRADING CRITERIA
# of Graded
Course
Graded Course Elements
Elements
Final grades in this course will be assigned a letter value as
follows:
A=90 to 100 points;
B=80 to 89 points;
C=70 to 79 points;
D=60 to 69 points;
F=59 and below.
Working in the studio is an essential part of this course.
Students should expect to devote studio time outside of
official class meeting times in order to complete projects
in a timely fashion. Students are expected to research a
minimum of 8 hours per week regarding their discipline.
If you are an art major expect to double that.
Progress and attendance can make a positive difference in
a student’s final grade, especially in “borderline” point
situations. Conversely, absences may lower a student’s
final grade as much as one full letter grade. After two
unexcused absences (by me or a doctor) you should
consider withdrawing from the class.
The instructor, as needed, will provide technical advice
related to the process you are working in. The instructor
will not do your work or problem solving for you. The
Percentage or
Points Values
student will be responsible for synthesizing this
information and developing his/her skills through
practice. The student is strongly encouraged to (1) attend
class on a regular basis, (2) participate in classroom
discussion at the appropriate time, and (3) develop a
professional approach to studio classes. Note: Cumulative
development and Professionalism is a large part of your
grade. Cumulative development is shown in your ability
to integrate previously covered material into subsequent
assignments. If you fail to do your weekly research you
will not do well in this course. If you come to class
unprepared you will lack in productivity, efficiency and
capability. Professionalism is demonstrated by
preparedness, attendance, effective use of class time,
consideration of your instructor and peers, and respect
for the studio.
Your Final Exam will be your art exhibit. You are
responsible for having your work presentable and
capable of installation.
INSTITUTIONAL LEARNING GOALS




A quality general education curriculum in all associate degree programs.
Quality freshman and sophomore level courses in arts and sciences which parallel the lower
division offerings of four-year colleges and universities.
Quality technical programs leading directly to careers in semi-skilled and skilled occupations,
and quality technical education programs up to two years in length leading to certificates and
associate degrees.
Quality programs and services in support of adult literacy and basic skills development as a
mean of workforce enhancement and expanding access to higher education.
PROGRAM PURPOSE STATEMENT
NCTC seeks to implement its goal of providing quality freshman and sophomore level courses in
arts and sciences that parallel the lower division offerings of four-year colleges and universities
by offering a coherent sequence of courses with appropriate breadth and depth to prepare
student for transfer to a university.
DEPARTMENTAL PURPOSE STATEMENT
The purpose of the Art Department is to prepare students with a vocabulary of visual form and
an extensive foundation in Art theory and practice through particular media concentration and
study in Art Appreciation.
STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
Students who complete this course will successfully demonstrate:
1. An understanding of safe and proper use of shop tools and equipment
2. Basic techniques in the fabrication of jewelry-making and metalworking
3. Design skills from conception to execution in metal
4. Presentation and discussion skills.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF SUBJECT MATTER FOR EACH LECTURE/DISCUSSION
Topic
General Description of Subject Matter
Orientation
An introduction to the safe and proper use of tools,
media, equipment and processes related to metal
working. Discussion on studio policy and the importance
of adhering to it.
Lecture /Demonstration
Demonstration of the tools and processes necessary to
complete the first assignment.
Design
What makes a good design?
Orientation
An introduction to the tools, media, equipment and
processes involved in wax working and casting precious
metals.
Lecture/Demonstration
Lost Wax Casting, Wax Manipulation and selection,
Tools used for wax manipulation
Lecture/Demonstration
Finishing your cast work.
Rotary Shaft
What is it for/ How do I use it?
Buffing Machine
What is it for / How do I use it?
Sandblasting Machine
What is for / How do I use it?
Various Finishing Attachments
Carbide bits, sandstone bits, rubber bits, graving bits
etc: When do I know what to select for use?
Oxy/Acet Torch
Its use in casting.
Crucibles
Their function in casting.
Patinas
Their function in the finish process.
Last day to Withdraw For the Fall 2012 semester, the last day to withdraw from a course with
a “W” is November 17, 2012.
Student Rights &
Responsibilities
NCTC Board policy FLB (Local) Student Rights and Responsibilities states
that each student shall be charged with notice and knowledge of the
contents and provisions of the rules and regulations concerning student
conduct. These rules and regulations are published in the Student
Handbook published in conjunction with the College Catalog. All
students shall obey the law, show respect for properly constituted
authority, and observe correct standards of conduct.
Scholastic Integrity
Scholastic dishonesty shall constitute a violation of college rules and
regulations and is punishable as prescribed by Board policies.
Scholastic dishonesty shall include, but not be limited to cheating on a
test, plagiarism, and collusion.
STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
Disability
Accommodations
The Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD) provides
accommodations for students who have a documented disability. A
disability is anything that can interfere with learning, such as a learning
disability, psychological challenge, physical illness or injury.
Accommodations may include extra time on tests, tests in a nondistracting environment, note taker in class, etc. On the Corinth Campus
go to room 170 or call 940-498-6207. On the Gainesville Campus go to
room 110 in the Administration (100) Building or call 940-668-7731 ext.
4321. North Central Texas College is committed to both the spirit and
letter of federal equal opportunity legislation, including the Americans
with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, ADA Amendments Act of 2009, and
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (P.L. 93-112).
Student Success
The Student Success Center is designed to help all students at NCTC
develop tools to achieve their academic goals. This program also links
students to FREE tutoring, including a Writing Center, a Math Lab, and
free 24/7 online tutoring and helps new students acclimate to college by
providing computer lab services for prospective students. All students
are invited to visit the Student Success Center on the Corinth Campus go
to rooms 170, 182, or 188; on the Gainesville Campus go to rooms 114
or 111; on the Flower Mound Campus go to room 111, on the Bowie
Campus go to room 124.
Financial Aid,
Scholarships and
Veterans Services
The Financial Aid Office is responsible for administering a variety of
programs for students who need assistance in financing their education.
The first step for financial aid is to complete a FAFSA. For more
information, please visit your nearest Financial Aid Office .
TOBACCO POLICY
Beginning January 1, 2012, ALL campuses of North Central Texas College will be tobacco-free.
NCTC is committed to providing a safe, healthy and welcoming learning environment. Students,
faculty, staff and visitors will be breathing easier at NCTC.
NCTC restricts the use of all tobacco products including cigarettes, cigars, pipes and smokeless
tobacco on campus property. NCTC is aware that tobacco use influences underage students
which cumulates unsightly tobacco litter and interferes with assuring clean air for all who come
to NCTC.
NCTC recognizes the health hazards of tobacco use and of exposure to second hand smoke.
Information on tobacco cessation program is available for students, faculty, staff who wish to
stop using tobacco products. Click on "Tobacco Cessation Programs" for more information.
We would like to "thank you" for your help in making our campuses Tobacco-Free.
For questions or concerns please contact the Office of Vice President of Student Services at
940.668.4240.