This class will focus on the design and production of copper flowers. Participants will be introduced to basic metalsmithing techniques, such as sawing, forging, forming, and soldering in order to transform copper sheet and wire into floral forms found in nature. Please bring the following items to class: cotton clothing, some form of hair restraint (if needed), leather-palm gloves, safety glasses, ear protection and closed-toe shoes or boots.

Brad Nichols is a Professor of Art at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. He received his Master of Fine Arts from Cranbrook Academy of Art and his Bachelors of Science from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. Nichols has exhibited his work internationally and nationally including venues such as the International Gallery of Contemporary Art, the National Ornamental Metal Museum, and the Cranbrook Art Museum. He has demonstrated and lectured on a variety of topics nationally and his work has been published in books, journals, and magazines such as Ironwork Today 4: Inside and Out, The Lapidary Journal Jewelry Artist, The Anvils Ring and The Hammers Blow.

Level: Beginner