Registration for this schedule starts on 12/01/2025 and ends on 06/12/2026
Participants must be 18 years to 120 years old when the program starts.
Registration for this schedule starts on 12/01/2025 and ends on 10/09/2026
Participants must be 18 years to 120 years old when the program starts.
NEXT LEVEL METAL CLAY: ADVANCING YOUR METAL CLAY ART
INSTRUCTOR: MICHAEL J. MARX AND CARRIE STORY
This 5-day deep-dive is designed for metal clay artists ready to expand their skills and explore more advanced techniques. You’ll create a series of sophisticated fine silver pieces that emphasize texture, movement, and structural integrity — while integrating foundational metalsmithing skills to enhance your clay-based designs. This course bridges traditional and contemporary approaches, unlocking new creative potential within metal clay. Projects include, but are not limited to:
• Hoops with an Edge
• Ring with a .925 band
• Friction Tube Earrings
• Pendant with Kinetic Bail Construction
The class fee includes enough silver metal clay and sterling silver, as well as
consumables to complete several projects, such as earrings, pendants, and the
ring. Also included in the class fee are all handouts along with the use of an
instructor’s tool kit. Additional metal clay and materials will be available for
purchase and the prices are included in the Estimated Materials Fee.
Class Fee: $175 due to each instructor
Est. Materials: Fee: $25 - $150
Prerequisites: Some basic experience with metal clay required.
Michael Marx:
I have been a sculptor and artis as long as I can remember. My childhood gifts were art supplies as often as they were toys or books. I was born in Massachusetts in 1969 and lived there for 18 years, before moving to California in 1987. After 33 years in the Bay Area, I relocated to South Carolina in 2020, where I currently reside. In the beginning, I sculpted in FIMO, a polymer clay, and this honed my ability to transform my visions into 3-D images. In 2000, I took my first PMC (precious metal clay) class and was hooked. PMC’s affinity for texture, flexibility of form, and choices of finishing techniques make it ideal for me as an artist. The combinations of fine detail, high texture, and varied forms are not easily achieved using traditional methods of casting and fabrication. I am passionate about my chosen medium and want to show that it is fine art and not just craft. https://unsaneart.com
Carrie Story:
Pioneering Metal Clay Artist, Inventor, and Educator
Carrie Story is a trailblazer in the world of metal clay, known for her innovation, technical mastery, and bold artistic voice. As the founder of Clay Revolution, she developed the acclaimed Five Star base metal clays and Five Star Project X silver clay—products that have transformed the way artists work with metal. Her journey began in 2008, and since then she has become an influential figure in the international metal clay community. Carrie teaches across the globe, blending deep technical instruction with a vibrant, approachable style that energizes her students and inspires creativity.
Her work is a reflection of her distinctive voice—organic, edgy, and rooted in the rebellious spirit of the ’90s. Carrie’s jewelry not only showcases metal clay’s potential but tells stories of individuality and freedom. She’s a familiar face at events like the Tucson Gem Show and a key force behind the Camp MC Certification Program, which has become a respected credential in the field. With her motto “Liberating Your Creativity,” Carrie encourages artists of all levels to push boundaries and embrace their personal style. Through innovation, education, and raw artistic passion, she continues to lead and shape the future of metal clay.
Please contact William Holland School of Lapidary Arts if you have any questions.