Hi, I’m Amanda.
Throughout my life, my artistic practice has been deeply inspired by my life’s journeys and experiences, particularly those centered around the natural world. This inherent curiosity drives me to explore new places, fostering a profound connection with nature that is central to my body of work. Just as nature is in a constant state of growth and adaptation, so too is my art. I engage in experimentation with new materials and techniques, viewing each challenge as an opportunity for problem-solving. My practice reflects the belief that learning from fellow metalsmiths enriches my artistic journey.
I have a passion for the technical aspect of metalsmithing and continually update my knowledge and skills to be able to complete my pieces because with each piece I envision, sometimes a new technique can be more helpful to fully accomplish the vision.
My current work focuses on integrating traditional metalworking techniques such as raising, chasing, repoussé, and enameling with contemporary methods like lost wax casting and electroforming. This blend allows for a nuanced exploration of form and texture in my work. I have begun to apply Prismacolor surface finishes to enhance the visual depth of my intricate pieces. My creations can be categorized into functional, wearable, and sculptural art, reflecting an intuitive approach to each piece’s potential narrative.
CV
Contact
amandashepardstudios@gmail.com
Anodizing
Chasing/repousse
Electroforming
Enameling
Etching
Fabrication
Fold forming
Hinge making
Hydraulic dye forming
Large/small scale casting
Photo transfer
Powder coating
Raising
Riveting
Soldering
Texturing
Metalwork
Ceramics
Skills
Glaze making
Hand building
Mold making
Raku kiln firing
Slip casting
Slip inlaying
Wheel throwing
Arts Management
Adobe Photoshop
Financial Management
Marketing
Grant Writing
Mac computers
Microsoft office
Strategic Planning
Education
2024-2025
University of Iowa
MFA in Metalsmithing, Secondary in Drawing/Painting
University of Iowa
2022-2024
MA in Metalsmithing, Secondary in Drawing/Painting
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
2016-2021
BA Studio Art emphasis in Metals/Jewelry and Ceramics
Arts Management
Experience
2025
Visiting Artist, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
Enameling demonstration for an advanced metalsmithing class. Demonstrated enameling techniques using china paints, underglaze colored pencils, and water color enamels.
2022-2025
Teaching Assistant, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
Elements and Introduction of Jewelry Design and Metalsmithing. Instructed students seeking foundations of jewelry and metal arts by utilizing cold connections, soldering, forming, etc.
Supervisor: Kee-ho Yuen (2022-2023) and Steve McGuire (2024-2025)
Metals Studio Monitor, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
Maintained tools and equipment, assisted students with processes and tools, enforced safety and equipment care policies in the Jewelry and Metal Arts facility.
Supervisor: Bethany Wood-Hebert
Painting Studio Monitor, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
Maintained and restocked tools and equipment and repaired walls in the Drawing and Painting Arts facilities.
Supervisor: Bethany Wood-Hebert
2019
Documented the City of Green Bay public art, created condition reports, worked with Public Arts Coordinator to create Public Art Walk map pamphlet. Attended meetings about new pieces of public art for the greater Green Bay area.
Supervisor: Laura Schley
Intern for the Green Bay Public Arts Commission,
City of Green Bay, Green Bay, WI
Spring Jewelry and Metal Arts Exhibition
Exhibitions
2025
Mauricio L. and Emilia B. Lasansky Atrium
Visual Arts Building, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
Included works: Rebirth pendant (2025), Pinecone hairpin (2025)
April 14-18
Memories: Collecting, Recreating, Reminiscing
Eve Drewelowe Gallery E100
Visual Arts Building, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
Solo MFA Exhibition
March 24-28
Fall Jewelry and Metal Arts Exhibition
2024
Eve Drewelowe Gallery E100
Visual Arts Building, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA.
Included works: Visiting Aunt Brenda and Uncle Bruce/Helping Uncle Bruce with the Bees I and II (2024)
November 11-15
Kingdom Animalia
Online Exhibition
Exhibizone
Included works: Working Hive (2023)
August 31-October 31
Spring Jewelry and Metal Arts Exhibition
4th Floor Atrium
Visual Arts Building, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA.
Included works: Pinecone Collection (2024)
April 22-26
GSS Jakobsen Graduate Development Series
Research Showcase
Iowa Memorial Union
University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA.
Included work: Working Hive (2023)
March 26
Fall Jewelry and Metal Arts Exhibition
2023
Mauricio L. and Emilia B. Lasansky Atrium
Visual Arts Building, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA.
Included work: Working Hive (2023)
November 13-17
Spring Jewelry and Metal Arts Exhibition
Mauricio L. and Emilia B. Lasansky Atrium
Visual Arts Building, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA.
Included work: Wasp Nest Collection 1 (2023)
April 17-28
Fall Jewelry and Metal Arts Exhibition
2022
Gallery E450
Visual Arts Building, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA.
Included work: Death Mask Interpretations (2022)
October 31-November 5
Lawton Gallery
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Green Bay, WI
Included work: Duality Series (2021)
April 3-May 13
2021
Senior Show
48th Annual Juried Student Exhibition
2020
Lawton Gallery
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Green Bay, WI
Included work: Inverted Birch (2020)
November 19-December 12
Len Everett Award for Excellence
Awards
2024
University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
GSS Jakobsen Graduate Development Series
Research Showcase
University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
Louise L. Osten Memorial Scholarship
2023
School of Art, Art History, and Design, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
Craig Mueller Scholarship
2018
Arts Management, University of Wisconsin- Green Bay, Green Bay, WI