The Metal Arts Guild (MAG) is an independent, non-profit, educational organization
of people who are skilled, interested, or share in the production and exhibition of metals.
Our Community
Everyone is welcome to join: from the beginner to the master craftsperson, teachers and students, metal arts collectors and more. Each member is a vital part of making the Guild work for our community.
We support the work of outstanding metal artists by organizing exhibitions, lectures, and workshops, awarding an annual MAG Community Project Grant, various student scholarships, and offering resources and opportunities for our members.
MAG is a 501(c 3) non-profit, all-volunteer-led arts organization, and we rely on your generosity to help us provide metal related events, lectures, workshops, exhibitions and networking mixers to the membership and community.
Featured Member
Each month a new Featured Member is chosen from the completed member profiles on our website. Their interview and work is highlighted on our blog and social media. Visit our archive of past Featured Members.
February 2025
Member of the Month: Olivia Competente
Website: https://jewelsbyoliviac.godaddysites.com/
Instagram: @jewelsbyoliviac
Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Olivia Competente. I am the owner of Jewels By Olivia C, a woman and minority-owned business.
I have been enamored with the craft and science of creating beautiful beads and metal jewelry from as early as I can remember. My first fabrication class was when I was 11 with Richard Leaf. For nearly 25 years, I’ve enjoyed teaching a wide range of classes from metal fabrication, enameling, jewelry making, and fused glass, sharing my love for a wide range of artistic expression.
Since 2022, I’ve been sharing my expertise and love of the metal arts through both small class settings and private lessons at my studio in San Francisco’s Sunset District. I offer classes that are affordable and often below market rate to make sure other metal jewelry artists have opportunities to create. Many of my students have continued to take classes with me for 8-12 years, but I also teach metalworking to folks new to the craft.
What is your favorite tool and why?
My Swiss #2 half-round file because the finishing details can make or break a piece
What is your primary material to create with most and what is your attraction to using them?
I have always been a silversmith. I love enameling because I love colors. Fine silver is my obsession and right now, I love working in Metal Clays because it is easy on the hands. With Metal Clays, I can also get to enameling faster.
What inspires your metalwork?
I love nature subjects- from cobwebs with dew, to cats, and dragonflies. Art Nouveau has always been my favorite art movement.
How long have you been working in metals and what brought you into the field?
I have been working in metals for 37 years. My mom refused to buy me earrings from Macy’s department store in the late 80’s. Can you imagine, she took me to Yoni’s bead shop in North Beach. and ever since then, I have been creating my work.
What advice would you give to someone just starting out in metals?
Take classes! Ask questions. Don’t give up. The piece you want to make will evolve with the knowledge you get. Never stop learning.
Best resource, vendor or website?
Best resource hands down is the Metal Arts Guild SF!!!!
Favorite vendor- Potter USA I think Kevin Potter is awesome! https://www.potterusa.com/
Runner Up vendor- Pepe Tools https://pepetools.com/
