Deanna Wardley

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Juror: Sandra Enterline

What led you to study metalsmithing/jewelry making? Please mention your school and year of study.

I’m about to enter my senior year at the Academy of Art. When I came to the school my experience was mostly in painting and mixed media, but I quickly fell in love with sculpture and three-dimensional artwork. I tend to create sculpture that is small and intimate so when I discovered jewelry making it felt very natural to me.

Deanna Wardley

What intrigues you most about this field/craft?

I love the idea of a piece of art being worn and treasured by the viewer. Something that’s worn on the body becomes very personal and special, so I’m attracted to that personal connection. I also love the problem solving that presents itself while creating a functional piece of art. I love solving puzzles and I think that’s a big part of what attracts me to making jewelry.

Deanna Wardley

What are your plans after graduation—both realistically and ideally?

Simply put, I’d like to build my own business selling my jewelry and sculpture. We’ll see what happens, I’ll be happy as long as I’m creating.

What do you wish your school’s program would offer, or what did you enjoy about your program?

I really enjoy the mixed media courses the jewelry department has added. One thing I think I’d like to see more of is collaboration between students in different departments.

Deanna Wardley

Are there any metal artists whose work inspires you—what it is about their work that is inspiring?

Lately I’ve been really inspired by an artist named Terhi Tolvanen. Her work is full of gorgeous textures and references to nature that I find really compelling. She uses a lot of wood and natural materials. Her pieces are so elegant but also raw at the same time, and I love that about her work.

If you were given the time and means to create your ultimate work, what would it be?

I’ve always wanted to do an art installation or some type of environmental art, like Andy Goldsworthy; so it would be something along those lines.

Deanna Wardley

Any words of wisdom you would offer prospective metal arts students?

I would say don’t be afraid to try out new materials or techniques and see what happens. Most of my ideas come from aimless experimenting. I would also recommend getting out there and looking at as much art as possible. Find something you like and figure out why it appeals to you. Then try to reinterpret that in your own work.