Join us behind the scenes to discover techniques and traditions of historical and contemporary metalsmithing with Brooklyn Metal Works. Artists, metalsmiths, and studio co-founders Erin S. Daily and Brian Weissman will discuss metalworking methods, share demos, and reflect on historic vanes featured in the Museum’s current exhibition American Weathervanes: The Art of the Winds.
Space is limited; advance registration is required. Please consider making a donation when you register to support our ongoing virtual programming.
Instructions for joining us, with a Zoom link and password, will be provided by email upon registration. You can find this information in the confirmation email under “Additional Information.” Closed captioning will be provided in English. For questions or to request accessibility accommodations, please email publicprograms@folkartmuseum.org.
In 2011 Erin S. Daily and Brian Weissman co-founded Brooklyn Metal Works, a co-working metalsmithing studio, education lab, and exhibition space. This collaborative setting is designed to foster exploration, encourage experimentation, and strengthen the knowledge of all involved. The BKMW community supports an extensive cross-section of practices, creating world-building opportunities for artists and the public to engage in NYC. Among other things, the studio brings visiting artists, hosts an artist lecture series, co-produces courses with other institutions, and exhibits contemporary jewelry otherwise unseen in NYC. Since 2003 Erin and Brian have taught jewelry and metalsmithing extensively along the East Coast and continue developing and leading innovative programming at Brooklyn Metal Works. They maintain their studio and art-making practices at BKMW.
Erin’s curiosity about materials and their cultural connections to the material world influences her art practice. Flatware, tools for the table, and items that fit in the palm on one’s hand reevaluate utility and are often subjects for her investigations. From the act of making to that of wearing or handling, Erin finds jewelry and metalsmithing captivating art forms. These practices encompass her love of metal and interest in the relationship between the human body and objects.
Brian transforms old and forgotten sterling silver and silver plate into intricate pieces of art that speak to the life cycle of materials, the ebb and flow of traditions, and the appreciation of the traditional handmade silver objects.
Image: Large Deer; J. Howard & Co.; West Bridgewater, Massachusetts; c. 1856–67; molded copper and cast zinc, gilded; 35 x 25 x 6 in. Collection of Kendra and Allan Daniel. Photograph by John Currens; Dead Languages – Shattered Teapot, Brian Weissman, photo courtesy of the artist.