Suzanne Pugh, Instructor
Metal Arts 180A2: Beginning Metal Arts
Office hours:T/Th 6-6.30, A-125 email: spugh@ccsf.edu
studio phone: 452-5782
Tonight! Go to fog.ccsf.edu/spugh, download and print your due dates! Check out the links on the site!
Course description
This course is a continuation of your introduction to basic metalsmithing techniques and design issues specific to the creation
of jewelry and other small-scale metals objects. More advanced beginning techniques will be combined with problem solving
and aesthetic development. The development of a project from an idea, through sketches, to a model, and eventually to the
finished object is a process that will be stressed in this course. Some of the techniques we will cover include hinges, marriage
of metals, and simple hollow construction. You are expected to work on your projects at least four hours outside of class to
meet minimum expectations. You are also expected to push your ideas and your comfort zone; by doing so you learn more.
Course description from the CCSF catalog:
Metal Arts 180A is an introduction to basic processes and techniques; direct fabrication, forming, soldering,
stonesetting, surface articulation, and finishing. Students are asked to creatively explore the materials and to develop
their aesthetic knowledge and personal vision. History, both cultural and technical is a constant resource and
foundation.
Course Goals:
1. To learn and become proficient in the jewelry and metals techniques presented this semester, and to execute projects
in a manner that clearly represents your understanding and proficiency of the techniques covered in those projects,
2. To continue to develop habits of mind associated with creative expression, such as problem solving and risk taking,
3. To understand and practice how creative work is informed,
4. To develop a wider knowledge of vocabulary in the studio relating to equipment and tools, and relating to design, art
theory, and art history,
5. To gain a greater understanding of the design possibilities in the craft.
COURSE OBJECTIVES from CCSF course description:
When the student finishes the course he/she will be able to:
A. Have a sense of metal arts history.
B. Have increased knowledge of design principles.
C. Demonstrate a basic understanding of the properties of non-ferrous metals.
D. Demonstrate an understanding of the basic tools and techniques used in metal arts.
E. Demonstrate proper cleaning and finishing techniques.
Course requirements:
Attendance: Attendance at all classes is required! If you have 3 unexcused absences in consecutive 3 weeks, you will be
withdrawn from the class. If you are more than 10 minutes late or leave early you will be considered absent. If you
miss a critique, you will automatically fail this class.
Supplies: Required materials, tools and textbook must be purchased at the beginning of the semester and throughout the
semester as projects are assigned, see attached suppliers and required materials lists.
Evaluation/Grading: Projects will be critiqued and graded on three equal factors; these include: Technical
quality/craftsmanship, overall design/concept, and difficulty of project/effort..
Your final grade is determined by these factors:
Project grades: 100%
Assignments:
1. Marriage of metals
2. Hollow Construction
3. Hinged object
4. Chain samples-a semester long project due the week of final critique.
180A2 is a studio class- there will be lectures/demos during certain classes; when there are not lectures or demos you are to
work independently on your projects.
Sketchbook: Your sketchbook is your life raft, cling to it! Write, draw, and brainstorm in it, bring it to class every day and take
notes in it, glue your favorite images into it. Use your sketchbook as the resource it was meant to be. You will be required to
make at least fifteen sketches leading to the final design of each project. These sketches will be reviewed with me *before*
you start your project, so don’t come to class without them. If you do come to class unprepared (without sketches), it will count
as an absence.
Work environment: The studio and equipment must be respected and kept clean and in order. Students are required to clean
up as a group at least ten minutes before class ends.
If a student damages a tool or any equipment as a result of improper use and/or neglect, the student is required to
pay for the replacement or repair cost.
Attention to safety issues is of utmost importance in this class. Before you begin any work, make sure you are not
endangering yourself or anyone else. Do not use any equipment you have not been trained to use, ever, no exceptions.
Always wear your safety glasses/goggles, and always keep your hearing protection on you in case of sudden, prolonged loud
noises. You will abide by the safety rules presented to you in the Metal Arts Studio Safety Rules form included with this
syllabus, and you will sign this form to indicate you have read and are familiar with the safety rules.
Plagiarism will not be tolerated. You will be expelled from the class and the school if it is found that you have plagiarized.
If you have a disability or health issue that could affect making or learning, or if you are pregnant, please come talk to
me.
As a second semester student, you and your classmates are partially responsible for
monitoring the beginners in their work habits. If you see a beginner working unsafely or
carelessly, it is your responsibility to inform the instructor.
By remaining enrolled in this class you agree to the policies outlined above. If any part of this
syllabus is unclear you should contact me immediately via email.