Resources for Artists

Now that you have made your beautiful artwork you need to have it photographed and you may want to copyright it. The Crucible has a number of classes and workshops to help artists, from design principles, to getting your work photographed to navigating copyright law.

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Design for the 3rd Dimension
Entry-level class
If you’re thinking about exploring any sculptural class, regardless of the material used or your vision for the final product, this is the place to start.  When you work in three dimensions, it’s important to know the elements and principles of design that will form your work.  This 5-session class examines the structure of 3D design through discussion, examples, practical exercises, and features guest artists that show and discuss their work.

Properties of Metals & Materials
Entry-level class
What causes work hardening in metal? Why does work hardening go away when the same metal is heated? Why does glass need to be annealed? This class explains physical occurrences that you will observe in classes at The Crucible. Examining these phenomena at the atomic level will help you better understand metals and materials. There will be no math, labs are incorporated into the class, and there are no prerequisites. Everything you need to know about demystifying the behavior and use of materials will be taught in class.

Have Your Artwork Professionally Photographed
Entry-level class
The Crucible is teaming up with photographer J. Jones to give you a chance to have your work documented professionally at a fraction of what it would cost you to arrange a private session. Sign up now and don’t miss this incredible opportunity to preserve your artwork in quality photographs that can be used in your portfolio, shown to galleries, or displayed for family and friends.

Copyright Law for Artists
Entry-level class
In this seminar, taught by a Crucible artist and licensed California attorney, you’ll learn how to best protect your works from plagiarism. The course will cover how to register your works, how to determine whether your work has been illegally copied, and what to do once you’ve determined that your copyright has been violated.

Sign Up for a Resources for Artists Class Now! >>

Basic Flame Effects (Kinetics)
Entry-level class
Create a flaming sculpture. Make your art car more noticeable. Or amaze your friends by adding fire to your art. This class covers all aspects of making safe, effective, and beautiful flame effects. The emphasis will be on propane and the burner and accumulator-type effects.  Student projects are encouraged.

EL-Wire Workshop (Neon & Light)
Entry- level class
Add sparkly shimmer to sculpture, interiors, and wearable art with electroluminescent wire; also known as EL-wire, it is a decorative, flexible wire that glows very much like neon. This one-day workshop introduces the technology and craft of soldering and working with EL-wire. You’ll learn basic soldering techniques, as well as various ways to assemble and attach wire to fabric, wood, and plastic. Drivers and sequencers for animation and advanced techniques will be introduced.

Home Jewelry Studio Design (Jewelry)
Entry-level class
Create a work area in your home that is worthy of the projects you have in mind. This class covers torch selection and gas systems, ventilation and respiration requirements, plus safety and organization tips. On the first day of class, we’ll take a field trip to working studios to research equipment. During the second class, you’ll design and lay out your plans for a home workspace that will fit all of your jewelry production needs.

Build Your Own Propane Forge (Blacksmithing)
Entry-level class
Need creative fire?  Learn to build a forge of your own in this 10-session class that teaches the basics of forge building.  Guided by a professional blacksmith, you’ll build your forge from an efficient design using three types of refractory materials, and use it for your own blacksmithing project.  The materials fee includes all parts and equipment costs except the propane tank.  Welding experience is helpful, but not necessary.