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
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
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