Through the creation of jewelry, functional objects, and sculpture, students in the metals program give form to their artistic vision. The metals program combines direct practice with conceptual problem solving. Students explore the methods and motives behind both traditional and contemporary metal work, learning how objects are informed by their historical contexts. Coursework is offered in all major metalworking techniques, including vacuum and centrifugal lost wax casting, vulcanized and silicone mold processes, hydraulic press techniques and die forming, and three- dimensional modeling and CNC milling. Students also learn to construct jewelry from both base and precious materials. Facilities available to students in the metal program accommodate work in welding, fabrication, machine tool and foundry processes, and blacksmithing.