Boise State University’s Art Jewelry and Metalsmithing department is holding its 20th annual auction of handmade pieces by students and alumni, with the silent online auction closing at 8 p.m. Mountain Standard Time on April 10.
The event is important for sustaining the metals studio in the Center for the Visual Arts, as it generates about one-third of the annual revenue needed to operate. The funds help pay for supplies, tools, equipment, and visiting artist workshops. Professor Anika Smulovitz said that without this support, it would be difficult to maintain the program’s activities.
This year’s sale features more than 20 works inspired by a “cabinet of curiosities” theme. According to organizers, such cabinets historically collected odd and mysterious objects blending art and science. Reflecting this idea, many pieces in the sale depict sea creatures, anatomical studies, insects, botanical subjects, humor and more. Most are wearable items that showcase techniques learned in class—including cold connections, soldering, patination, enameling, stone setting and chasing/repoussé—as well as work with alternative materials.
The process behind creating these pieces differs from typical coursework. Students start with a cut metal silhouette based on a shared theme; then each student spends half an hour working on another student’s piece before passing it along in a round-robin format until five students have contributed to each item. In a final exchange round they receive an unfamiliar piece to finish into an object suitable for sale.
“The auction engages students in both an exhibition and an online event that they actively promote and take ownership of, providing valuable professional and organizational experience,” Smulovitz said.
The annual auction continues to offer practical learning opportunities while helping ensure resources remain available for future classes.
