September 08, 2010

Annual metals conference set for Sept. 24-25

by Andrea Hahn

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- A metals weekend comes to Southern Illinois University Carbondale the weekend of Sept. 24-25 in the form of the annual Southern Illinois Metalsmiths Society (SIMS) Metals Conference.

The annual event features exhibitions from guest artists and a fine arts auction featuring metal artwork as well as jewelry, sculpture, glass and ceramics.

Here’s what’s in store:

Friday, Sept. 24

• 8-9 a.m. – Registration, required for participation in the day’s events. Pre-registration is $20 for general public, $25 at the door. Events are free for SIUC students and for John A. Logan College students.

• 9-11:30 a.m. -- Don Fogg demonstration, Pulliam Hall

Fogg is known for his handmade knives and his bladesmithing. His teaching schedule includes work with the New England School of Metalworking, where he teaches courses in Japanese swordsmithing and pattern welded steel.

• 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. -- Lunch (included with registration fee)

12:15-3 p.m. -- Zack Noble demonstration, Pulliam Hall

Noble creates sculpture and functional and architectural work at his own Noble Forge in North Carolina. His teaching credits include the Penland School of Crafts, Peter’s Valley Craft Center and the John C. Campbell Folk School.

• 3-5 p.m. -- Visiting Artist slide lectures -- University Museum auditorium

• 5-8 p.m. -- Forge, Form and Fabricate exhibit and reception. The exhibit is Sept. 14-Oct. 17l

Saturday, Sept. 25

• Noon -- Auction preview with lunch provided by the Neighborhood Co-op Grocery of Carbondale, Riverside Park, Murphysboro. Side dish contributions are welcome.

• 1-5:30 p.m. -- Silent auction

• 2-4:30 p.m. -- Live auction

6 p.m. -- Local Harvest Picnic begins (potluck picnic and harvest celebration)

7 p.m. -- music by Pokey LaFarge and the South City Three

The annual conference is a major fundraiser for SIMS, a Registered Student Organization formed to promote metalsmith art.