Instructor: Jimmy Rhea
Monday - Wednesday & Friday
July 1 - 5
9am - 1pm
4 sessions

This is an exciting introduction to the art of metal fabrication, perfect for both beginning and intermediate students.  We will focus on creating an original steel sculpture by cutting, grinding, manipulating and welding. Students can expect to learn metal bending with a torch, cutting with a metal shear, and shaping with grinders and hammers, along with using M.I.G. (metal inert gas) welders in the wonderful new Castle Hill Metal fabrication area. As time allows, students will be encouraged to make multiple sculptures during the week. This class will be taught with a loose, fun, and safe attitude and will be one of the most demanding of the summer. Still it is guaranteed to be one of your most gratifying experiences on your way to becoming a metal sculptor.

Students will be responsible for bringing their own personal protective gear: (safety glasses, work gloves, long sleeve shirts, and long pants) and must adhere to all safety protocols. Clothing must be cotton (no fringes or holes in any of the clothing) and shoes need to be leather and closed toed. Welding protective gear is provided by Castle Hill, but you are welcome to bring your own welding protective gear if you prefer.

Jimmy Rhea is the Sculpture Professor at Pensacola State College in FL, where he has been teaching since 2015. He received his Master of Fine Art degree in 2007 at UMASS Amherst, then worked as the Sculpture Technician for the Hartford Art School at the University of Hartford for seven years. Rhea completed his BFA at the University of West Georgia, and his artwork is being collected throughout the East Coast and in Germany.

More at www.jimmyrhea.com