Eighteen Yuan (MFA Metalsmithing 2023).
Eighteen Yuan (MFA Metalsmithing 2023).
Eunji Choi, 2014
Eunji Choi, 2014
Miku Saeki (MFA Metalsmithing 2023)
Miku Saeki (MFA Metalsmithing 2023)

Metalsmithing

Metalsmithing Philosophy

Jing Xu (MFA Metalsmithing 2023)

Photo: Vera Wei

Metalsmithing Philosophy

Metalsmithing Philosophy

To melt, twist, and break. To cut, scrape, and grind. To rip and tear. To weld and hinge. To fold, unfold, cover and uncover. To wrap and to polish.

The Metalsmithing department encourages a broad-based approach to making. Thinking through materials, we ask questions about the relationship between objects and the body, working at scales ranging from the intimate and handheld to the architectural and monumental. 

Expand the discourse around contemporary metalwork by challenging preconceived notions of value and utility, as well as supporting people of diverse backgrounds, genders, and physical abilities. We question how the things we make reflect larger social, political, and cultural ideas, always grounded in materiality and process. Through working, evaluating, and remaking, students develop a personal aesthetic and focused set of concerns that both inform their practice and help shape the world.

Iris Eichenberg

The Cranbrook Experience in Metalsmithing

Iris Eichenberg

The Cranbrook Experience in Metalsmithing

Student Work

Student Work
Eighteen Yuan (MFA Metalsmithing 2023). Photo: PD Rearick.
Student Work
Miku Saeki (MFA Metalsmithing 2023)
Student Work
KIWI PHONG NGUYEN (MFA METALSMITHING 2023). PHOTO: PD REARICK.
Student Work
Jing Xu (MFA Metalsmithing 2023)
Student Work
Shelly McMahon, 2018
Student Work
Vika Bulgakova, 2018
Student Work
Alberte Tranberg, 2018
Student Work
Emily Culver, 2015
Student Work
Lei Zhang, 2015
Student Work
Alissa Lamarre, 2013
Student Work
Matt Lambert, 2014
Student Work
Aaron Decker, 2015
Student Work
Adam Shirley, 2010
Student Work
Shelly McMahon, 2018
Student Work
Eunji Choi, 2013
Student Work
Seth Papac, 2009
Student Work
Eunji Choi, 2013
Student Work
Seth Papac, 2009
Apply Now

Driven by a relationship between material and process, Metalsmithing at Cranbrook is committed to the production and performance of activating substance.