Local students in grades 9-12 learned about metalsmithing and developed skills to create soldered silver rings during a recent Herkimer-Fulton-Hamilton-Otsego BOCES Honors Program event.
Metalsmith artist Marissa Perkins returned to put on an Honors Program workshop for the second time this school year – after previously visiting in November.
Students began working with copper to learn basic metalsmith techniques, including soldering with a small torch, filling, forming, cleaning and polishing. As the students’ soldering skills improved, they continued their work using sterling silver.
“I am amazed at how quickly the students learned this new skill,” Herkimer BOCES Honors Program Coordinator Deborah Schoff said. “Their creativity and willingness to experiment and try new things are exciting to see.”
The “Designing Soldered Silver Rings” Honors Program event took place during two sessions – on April 14 and 15 at the Herkimer BOCES Gateway Center in Herkimer. Students from Central Valley, Herkimer, Owen D. Young and Poland attended on April 14. Students from Dolgeville, Frankfort-Schuyler and Mount Markham attended on April 15.
“Marissa is a wonderful teacher,” Schoff said. “Her calm, reassuring approach put the students at ease. Her knowledge and guidance helped students improve their techniques, and her open, encouraging approach led students to tap into their creativity.”
