Manuel Vilhena: Jewellery and Other Stories

This course is directed at people who want to use jewellery as a form of artistic expression. It is not a technical course per se, although jewellery techniques will be focused upon as a means to formalise conceptual thought.
From the first steps on how to choose relevant ideas to creating and developing work, up to the final stages of presentation and exhibition, students will be given conceptual and practical exercises aimed at stretching their own experience and at creating shifts of perspective on their personal work.
The course is structured on a series of group discussions, lectures and private tuition, allowing time and attention to the needs of each student. Guest lecturers will be an integral part of the course.
The programme will focus systematically on three aspects of the creative process: intellectual, aesthetic and emotional. Each of these aspects will be investigated individually and later combined as a whole. Students are expected to prepare an end-of-course exhibition, performance, or other form of output consistent with their work during the four weeks.
The course aims to present an opportunity to review our position as artists, to ask fundamental questions about being a maker, obtain new ease in self-expression, and assume a new level of quality in personal work.
Finally, the course proposes to give students the necessary conceptual, practical and technical tools for the growth and deepening of their own personal work.
It is important for students to be willing to allow themselves to be put in working situations outside their comfort zone.

Dates and price

Price: € 1.070,- (reduced fee € 750,-)

Time: Aug. 2 - 28, 2010 (4 weeks)

Deadline for application: May 15, 2010

Media: Goldsmith techniques, contemporary jewellery theory

Languages: English, French, Hungarian, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish

Maximum number of participants: 12

Requirements: 1) Essential knowledge of English. The course will be conceived in English throughout. Group discussions and lectures will be in English. Individual tuition can be adapted to the student’s own needs.) Basic knowledge of jewellery techniques. This is not essential but advisable. Teacher and assistant will be able to help students in technical matters.

What to bring: Personal tools: pliers, files, drill bits, saw blades and all other basic goldsmith tools. The Academy workshop is supplied with basic tools and facilities for casting, milling, wire drawing, etc. Tools can be ordered from suppliers in Vienna and delivered next day at the student's expense, if desired.

Assistant: Flora Vagi