Metalsmiths and Mentors: Fred Fenster and Eleanor Moty at the University of Wisconsin-Madison

The history of contemporary American metalsmithing is inextricably linked with the academy. Since the 1950s, nearly every significant artist working in metals has trained at a university or art school - fertile ground for innovation and exploration in metalsmithing and jewelry making. The University of Wisconsin - Madison’s metals program is among the best in the nation, founded on the teaching legacy of Fred Fenster and Eleanor Moty, who instilled in their students a profound respect for craftsmanship, technical innovation, formal integrity, and thoughtful design. The work in this catalogue encompasses hollowware and jewelry, wearable sculpture, poetic and narrative objects, and conceptual installations. The show at the Chazen Museum of Art was produced by guest curator Jody Clowes.