AUDREY ARONSON

Metalsmith

In much of my work I explore feminist conceptual themes which are based on my personal experiences and research into the subject of feminist theory. These include themes of objectification, connection, and historical narratives. Elements of abstract symbolism and use of the female figure convey these ideas. Material and process is also important in my work. I enjoy creating organic form through carving and casting techniques. I'm also interested in alternative materials as a means to both reinforce conceptual elements in my work as well as increase the aesthetic quality. Jewelry as fine art has meaning to me because the nature of it allows a sense of intimacy and interaction with the piece. It encourages an attention to detail in its making, and a communication with the body in its wearability.​

CV

Education 

2020                Bachelor of Fine Art, Three-Dimensional Studio Media and Art History, Eastern Illinois University,                                    Charleston, Illinois

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Teaching Experience

2016                Jewelry and metals student assistant teaching (assisted demonstrations, maintained studio operations,                          and assisted with student questions), Oak Park and River Forest High School, Illinois, Spring

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 Awards/Grants/Fellowships

2020                Miranda Rice Weiss Art History Scholarship, Eastern Illinois University

                        Irene Couchman Buzzard Scholarship, Eastern Illinois University

                        Outstanding Senior Award in Studio 3D, Eastern Illinois University

                        Outstanding Senior Award in Art History, Eastern Illinois University

                        Best in Show, All Student Show, Eastern Illinois University

                        1st Place in Jewelry/Metals, All Student Show, Eastern Illinois University

                        Honorable Mention, All Student Show, Eastern Illinois University

                        Talented Student Award, Eastern Illinois University

                        Grant-in-Aid Art Award, Eastern Illinois University

2019                Art Department Gift Award, Eastern Illinois University

                        Miranda Rice Weiss Art History Scholarship, Eastern Illinois University                      

                        CLAS Dean’s Award, Eastern Illinois University

                        Mary Caroline Simpson Academic Excellence in Art Award, Eastern Illinois University

                        Melinda Clancy Hegarty Memorial Travel Fund, Eastern Illinois University

                        Commitment to Excellence Scholarship, Eastern Illinois University

2018                Irene Couchman Buzzard Scholarship, Eastern Illinois University

                        Talented Student Award – Art, Eastern Illinois University

                        Commitment to Excellence Scholarship, Eastern Illinois University

2017                Commitment to Excellence Scholarship, Eastern Illinois University

2016                Commitment to Excellence Scholarship, Eastern Illinois University

Professional Experience

2020                Bench Jeweler at Towne Square Jewelers, Charleston, Illinois

2019                Workshop with Daniel DiCaprio - Wood Jewelry, Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft, Columbia, North                              Carolina

2017-               Bench Jeweler’s Apprentice at Jared the Galleria of Jewelry, Orland Park, Illinois

2020  

2016                Workshop with Veronica Fremont at Cicada Pi Art Studio, Oak Park, Illinois

Exhibitions

2020                BFA Show, Eastern Illinois University

2020                Serving The People, National BFA show

2020                All Student Show, Eastern Illinois University

2020                Halstead Design Challenge: Connection

2019                What It Is: A Metalsmithing Exhibition, 1910 Gallery, Eastern Illinois University

2018                Safety Is Required, Metalsmithing & Jewelry Show and Sale, 1910 Gallery, Eastern Illinois University

Skills/Tools               

Fabrication of non-ferrous metals with the following: Smith Silversmith Atmospheric acetylene torch, natural gas/compressed air torch, propane/oxygen torch, acetylene/oxygen torch, hydraulic press (20 and 30 ton), beverly shear, stomp shear, guillotine shear, band saw, buffing machine, tumbler, belt sander, copper electroforming, ARBE centrifugal casting, vacuum casting equipment, cuttlebone casting, silica sandblaster, silicone rubber mold making.

Bench Jeweler Skills

Repair and fabrication of gold, white gold, rose gold and silver with the following: buffing machine, ultrasonic, stone tightening/setting, ring sizing, half shank, break in shank, prong retipping, bracelet hinge repair, earring post replacement, solder rings together, chain repair, rhodium plating, machine engraving, addition of bishop bumps, brush finishing, laser welding  

Professional Memberships

2018 – 2020    President of co-ed merit fraternity Phi Alpha Eta, Eastern Illinois University

References available upon request