about me
I first discovered metalsmithing 20 years ago in a mini-course at the University of Wisconsin Memorial Union craftshop. I was taken with the physicality of sheet metal, torches, and saws—and awed that I could successfully work with materials that substantial.
That's when I discovered the moment of solder flow: when heat, timing and capillary action converge to form a bond. It was and always will be magical.
When that class ended, I bought a pass to experiment on my own in the craftshop. Soon after, I took a credit class at Madison College. I learned the fundamentals of “slow jewelry”—a foundation that helps me to this day. I’ve since taken many more classes, and discovered what moves me most: forms, fabrication, color and surfaces.
Today I work in a wonderful shared studio space. I still love the process as much as I did when I started, and I'm thrilled to keep creating, learning and growing.
—Andrea Schmick
That's when I discovered the moment of solder flow: when heat, timing and capillary action converge to form a bond. It was and always will be magical.
When that class ended, I bought a pass to experiment on my own in the craftshop. Soon after, I took a credit class at Madison College. I learned the fundamentals of “slow jewelry”—a foundation that helps me to this day. I’ve since taken many more classes, and discovered what moves me most: forms, fabrication, color and surfaces.
Today I work in a wonderful shared studio space. I still love the process as much as I did when I started, and I'm thrilled to keep creating, learning and growing.
—Andrea Schmick
Artist's statement
My work starts with a visual idea, often inspired by ornamental motifs and natural structures, I build on shapes and forms, seeking visual harmony and adapting as it's further revealed. I love to have a dialogue through the sheen and clarity of silver, punctuated with gemstones or balanced with the warmth of copper.
My process is organic, tactile and intuitive. When I work, my mind lifts up and away, my senses sharpen, and my body and spirit take over. I find tremendous freedom in the journey of abstraction and where it takes me.
For me, connecting to this world is a task of craftsmanship and of life. These objects—and the handwork in making them—are the bridge.
My work starts with a visual idea, often inspired by ornamental motifs and natural structures, I build on shapes and forms, seeking visual harmony and adapting as it's further revealed. I love to have a dialogue through the sheen and clarity of silver, punctuated with gemstones or balanced with the warmth of copper.
My process is organic, tactile and intuitive. When I work, my mind lifts up and away, my senses sharpen, and my body and spirit take over. I find tremendous freedom in the journey of abstraction and where it takes me.
For me, connecting to this world is a task of craftsmanship and of life. These objects—and the handwork in making them—are the bridge.