Registration for this schedule starts on 12/01/2025 and ends on 04/24/2026
Participants must be 18 years to 120 years old when the program starts.
SECRETS WITHIN: HOLLOW FORM JEWELRY IN FINE SILVER METAL CLAY
INSTRUCTOR: MICHAEL MARX
Unlock the mystery of hollow forms in this exciting exploration of fine silver metal
clay. Discover how to create dimensional, lightweight jewelry that looks
substantial — but cleverly hides its secrets within.
We’ll start with the fundamentals of building basic hollow structures, then expand
into more intricate, fully closed sculptural designs that invite curiosity and
wonder. Learn to shape and texture your pieces to create everything from
organic designs to playful creatures, all with perfectly finished exteriors and
hidden inner spaces.
In this class, you’ll:
• Master techniques for constructing hollow boxes, domed forms, lentils,
and sculptural pendants
• Explore strategic draping, drying, and firing to avoid collapse or cracks
• Incorporate surface textures, cut-outs, and layered details to add visual
depth
• Experiment with optional elements like tiny rattles or hidden stones or
embellishments that truly put a secret inside your jewelry
You’ll complete multiple projects during the week, each building on the last so
you finish with a series of stunning hollow creations that feel both magical and
professional. By the end, you’ll not only understand the engineering behind
hollow forms — you’ll be eager to keep dreaming up new ways to hide delightful
surprises inside your art.
The class fee includes enough silver metal clay, custom textures and
consumables to complete 1-2 projects. Also included in the class fee are all
handouts along with the use of an instructor’s tool kit and additional textures and
draping forms. Additional metal clay and materials will be available for purchase
and the prices are included in the Estimated Materials Fee.
Class Fee: $295 due to instructor
Est. Materials Fee: $50 - $200
Prerequisites: Some basic experience with metal clay recommended but not
required.
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
Please contact William Holland School of Lapidary Arts if you have any questions.