More 2023 Workshops Announced soon!


Silversmith Intensive Jewelry Workshop
​Five days - Five amazing projects! 
Nanaimo, BC

Single Stone Drop Pendant
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This unique setting will open doors for anyone wanting to up their stone setting skills. 
 
You will fabricate this setting from two pieces of sterling silver sheet metal. The first will act as the base to your setting while cleverly doubling as the bail for your pendant.   This piece will be cut out and will become the frame work for your setting.
The second section of sterling silver will be formed into the actual setting for your stone and helps secure it.  There will be fine sawing and filing skills put to use on this project.   Kelly will demonstrate a couple of ways to polish into the tight spaces in your cut outs.
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Jewelry fabrication is all about the creative details and this piece embodies that sentiment to a T.
You will have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of eye catching round or oval natural faceted stones.  Elegant describes this piece. ​
Sleek Channel Set Ring
Sleek and sophisticated, this ring looks simple but will present its own set of challenges.
 
We will start by fabricating 2 bands and learn how to partially solder them together.   Precision is the secret to this ring.

You will focus on the subtle details to ensure a stunning end product.  Once the bands are assembled Kelly will demonstrate two options on finishing: how to achieve a super high polish or how to use a diamond bur to add texture for the final look.
 

Next you will learn the skills required to channel set two graduated sizes of cubic zirconias snugly into the space of your rings.  This will take some finessing.

This ring is the perfect intro to channel setting. It provides flexibility in the process of stone setting so that everyone can return home knowing how to repeat this unique setting.  And in addition you get to wear one of these beauties home on your finger.

Time permitting for our more advanced students only, a third band and/or an extra stone or two may be added.
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Textured ring with dazzle

A number of techniques are involved in the making of this gorgeous ring.
ring that focuses on multiple tube sets that are grouped together and set on edge.
 
You'll begin by learning to construct the ring shank and create the playful bubble looking ball texture.  There are a couple of approaches that can be used to achieve this look and Kelly will demonstrate both.

Next, you'll learn how to properly attach the multiple tube settings onto the edge of your ring band while learning some handy tips and tricks to achieving this balancing act when it comes time to solder.
 


​Kelly will also demonstrate two ways to prevent your settings from joining accidentally when they are being soldered to your shank.  You may tube set up to 5 natural stones in the colors of your choosing from the selection Kelly will provide. 

****Additional stones and bezels may be purchased for your ring if your skill level is advanced.  This ring looks great with just five though! ​
 Link by Link Bracelet

This fun, eye catching bracelet will focus on playing with rolling mill and hammer textures.  Along with texturing, students will be form their long silver bracelet segments to add a bit more dimension to their pieces. 
 
Once all the segments have been fabricated  you'll  link them together invisibly!  Such a pretty look!  You will also create a secure hook closure that won't detract from the sleek style of this bracelet and it's beautifully patterned links.  
You will have the option of fabricating your bracelet in sterling silver or mix it up with brass, copper or bronze for an accent link or two. Again, the design possibilities are endless with this project.
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Marvels of Inlay - Pendant or Earrings
Inlay is a technique that has been around for centuries and can be accomplished utilizing many different types of materials.  Our project will focus on mixing metals in a fun and unique way.

Once you have designed your shape in copper, you will then solder sterling silver to the back of your piece.  This will prevent any copper from. coming into contact with your skin.  

Next, learn the skills to inlay your fine silver design without the need for solder.  Kelly will demonstrate a couple of different approaches to accomplish a well-fitted metal inlay.  You will have the opportunity to design your own pieces and patterns for your inlay.
This style is open to many possibilities and patterns with minimal difficultly.  The play of colour in the metals allows for an interesting design that can stand beautifully on its own.  Especially if one metal is oxidized black, leaving the secondary metal to stand out more boldly against a darker background.  Fine silver does not oxidize which is ideal for this project. 

Or you may also choose to flame patina your copper which would result in creating striking bursts of color.  As always, the choice of finish is yours to make. ​


​Lastly, we will also fabricate a stylish bail to add a little extra pizzazz to your piece.  Bails can go far beyond just being functional and it's a bonus when they can become a more integral part of the design! 
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Note: you may choose to make either a pendant or pair of earrings for this project.
Visit Kelly's website: www.kellyallanson.com
All tools provided for use during our workshops! 
5 days   
Projects can be simplified or made more challenging depending on experience.
Beginners will make the simpler versions of each project.
APRIL 20 - 24, 2023. Session 1 Thursday - Monday  (only 1 space left)
APRIL 27- May 1, 2023 Session 2 Thursday - Monday  (Sorry Full)
$745.00 Plus get 5 %
NOTE:  + $250.00 material fee to be paid to instructor upon commencement.
Prefer a payment plan?  Email me here:  marystewart@telus.net
Hours:  10 - 5 daily
Location: 1520 Stewart Ave. Nanaimo, BC

Mary Stewart
​
Abstract Mixed Media Painting And
​Collage Workshop
​Nanaimo, BC


We are celebrating the 20th anniversary of Vancouver Island Art Workshops this May! 

I invite you to join me for a fun-filled five days as we explore mark-making, printing, painting and collage. Playfully experiment and embrace the creative process. 

There will be guided exercises along with lessons on color mixing, value, composition, the elements and principles of design and more.  We'll put the "fun" into the fundamentals.  Many of these are things I wish I had known about earlier on.
Short demo's will be based on abstract and nonobjective painting but the lessons apply to all painting styles.
​We won't be busting out the text books or holding exams but you will gain some valuable information, along with many tips and techniques disguised as fun.  

​We begin each day with quick warm-ups, some that focus on color and design while others will result in numerous painting starts and/or collage papers.  ​ We willl explore different approaches to beginning a painting using painting prompts and more.  
You will work on both square and rectangular substrates which may be designed and hung as individual pieces, diptychs or triptychs.
​​There will be plenty of time to paint and for group critique.  So if you're looking for some serious play time with a small group of like minded artists, then I look forward to seeing you in May! 
House paint, varnish, collage papers etc. along with 3 cradled wood panels included.
Required:  A small supply list will be emailed 6 weeks prior to commencement.
5 days   
​May 8 - 12, 2023 Monday - Thursday
​Waterbased media
Max 14 spaces
All levels welcome.  Should have some basic color knowledge.
$895.00 Plus gst 5 %
Prefer a payment plan?  Email me here:  marystewart@telus.net
Hours:  10 - 5 daily
Location: 1520 Stewart Ave. Nanaimo, BC
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