September 18, 2013
Metalsmiths Society to host exhibit, auction
CARBONDALE, Ill. – Fire, metal and art intersect at Southern Illinois University Carbondale later this week at the annual Southern Illinois Metalsmiths Society (SIMS) auction and art weekend.
The event begins at 3 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 20 in the University Museum auditorium in Faner Hall. Guest artist Fred Crist will talk about his artistic vision and his experiences as an architectural artist and sculptor, as well as a photographer. A reception for the “Form, Forge, and Fabricate” exhibit at the museum will follow. The exhibit highlights recent work from SIMS members.
Crist will demonstrate his technique during two workshops on Saturday, Sept. 21, at 9 a.m. and at 1 p.m. The registration fee is $10 for SIU Carbondale and John A. Logan College students with valid student identification, and $20 for community members. The registration fee includes lunch. The demonstrations are in the industrial wing of Pulliam Hall.
The SIMS fundraiser, a fine arts auction, is at Turley Park, beginning at 4 p.m. with a silent auction. The live auction begins at 5 p.m. Some food and beverages are available on site.
In his artist statement, Crist notes that his development as an artist and the changes in his technique reflect his growth and changes as an individual. Currently, he uses iron forgings to make wax pieces, and then combines them to make entirely new works in bronze.
He has considerable experience as an instructor, and his work is part of several private and public collections. He is the sole owner of FACrist Metalsmith studio in Waynesboro, Virg. To learn more about his work, visit facristmetalsmith.com/.
SIMS is one of several registered student organizations affiliated with the SIU Carbondale School of Art and Design. SIMS uses proceeds from the fundraiser to buy materials for SIMS students, and to bring guest artists to campus.