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