Perhaps no craft medium is more all-inclusive than the metal arts. It’s a field big enough to encompass huge public installations to the smallest pieces of jewelry – and everything in between. It uses base metals, like cast or wrought iron, decorative work in copper or bronze, or the “noble metals” – like gold, silver, and platinum. Is one right for you? Learn More!

Metalworking began at least 6000 years ago, with the Bronze Age. Bronze soon begat iron, and what was made – plus how it was made – was changed forever. Metal’s gone from the most precious of objects to something we throw away or recycle every day. See how metals have changed our world!

There’s a long and rich heritage of metalwork from around the world. And American artists have made it their own: Old traditions with new interpretations. Meet some of them who think big or small – but exude creativity either way.

Want to add woodworking to your list of activities? Get the stuff you need? See amazing work? Get more involved? Check out some books, museums, and organizations to help you do more!

Craft can be a satisfying hobby – even a career. Help build the next generation of artists, with lessons plans for K-12 that interact with our documentary. Check out our study guide and bring a new dimension to your art class!