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.
Schoff praised the workshop that Perkins put on for students.
“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.”
The Herkimer BOCES Honors Program is open to students in Herkimer BOCES component school districts and is designed to support the potential of students in grades 3-12 who have above average interests and abilities in a particular area. Programs allow for interaction with like-minded peers. Students learn by engaging in educational activities with presenters who are noted in their field. Exploration and programs provide for different learning styles and include topics in the arts and sciences as well as literature and history. Ongoing evaluation of all programs by teachers and students assures their relevance and quality.
Metalsmith artist Marissa Perkins shows local students how to create soldered silver rings during a recent Herkimer-Fulton-Hamilton-Otsego BOCES Honors Program workshop at the Herkimer BOCES Gateway Center in Herkimer.
Metalsmith artist Marissa Perkins presents to local students during a recent Herkimer-Fulton-Hamilton-Otsego BOCES Honors Program workshop at the Herkimer BOCES Gateway Center in Herkimer.
