2024: Ellen Durkan: Forged Fashion: Body Adornment

The workshop is open to beginners up to advanced students.  It is focused on forging a metal piece to be worn on the chest or around the neck. At the beginning of the week, students will focus on practicing the various forging methods demonstrated. There will be short forging assignments to build the skills needed to construct and design an individual piece. The rest of the week the students will design and problem-solve with the guidance of the instructor.

The class will help students through the design process to a completed piece; don’t worry if you can’t draw! We will combine different forging and forming techniques using bar stock.  The class will focus on creating balanced symmetry in steel by using repetition of form, hammer control, material isolation, and movement. Students design an object that becomes personal and alive when worn on the body.  Demonstrations will cover various organic design elements, inspired by Ellen Durkan’s personal work.  

This class is open to all levels. Class includes safe shop practices, fire management, efficient hammer techniques, and basic forging.  All safety equipment and materials will be provided. 9 AM till 5 PM Monday through Thursday, 9 AM till Noon Friday. Tuition $650

Refund, Transfer, and Cancellation Policy

Please Note:   A parent, guardian, or responsible adult must be on site for students under 18 years of age for the duration of the class.  Adults accompanying minors do not have to take the class, but they are welcome to if they wish. 















Students and their work from a previous class.













Students and their work from a previous class.
An example of Ellen’s work.