In the spirit of Kris Williams, the SMG is offering this scholarship for continued education.
Kris Williams (1950-1993) grew up in Medford, Oregon where she enjoyed the opportunity to study art and ceramics in her high school. She developed her passion for making objects and her understanding of good instruction from her art teacher and mentor.
She received her BFA in metals and ceramics from the University of Washington in 1978. She was involved in helping put on the 1977 SNAG conference in Seattle and was always torn between metal and clay.
Upon graduation, she established her business as a metal artist and builder of many things. She renovated houses around the Seattle area and always added those special touches to the homes. She became involved in the group "Friends of Rag" which helped her integrate her jewelry and interest in clothing. She often forged beautiful sterling collars that allowed her hand-made fabrics to drape on the body.
She was a founding board member of the Seattle Metals Guild in 1988 who believed in sharing her knowledge and giving back to her community. As an educator, she taught at Pratt Fine Arts Center and then at North Seattle Community College where she established the continuing education jewelry classes. Shortly after leaving North, she fell victim to her childhood diabetes and died at the early age of 43.
She will be remembered as a tried and true friend, a person of integrity and one willing to share herself and her knowledge to better the community she lived in.
Description of Scholarship: one grant of a maximum of $500 will be awarded. It is designed to pay for the tuition of a class chosen by the recipient.
In exchange for this grant, the recipient is required to make a presentation to the general membership on the class that was attended and what was learned. This presentation can be a live lecture, an article in the newsletter, a demonstration, a workshop or a video. The presentation is intended to create a dialogue between members and to share experiences. The Guild will archive this presentation and retains the right to use the presentation material at any future date. Recipients will make arrangements for the presentation with the selection committee after being notified of their award.
Eligibility: This scholarship is awarded based on merit. Full-time or matriculated students are not eligible. Applicants must reside in the Pacific Northwest, which is comprised of Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington.
Application: Application packets will not be returned. All applications must include the following:
- 1) A letter of intent (maximum 1 pages) including the following:
- An artist's statement
- A description of the class the applicant wishes to attend
- An explanation of the desire to attend this class
- 2) A current resume
- 3) Digital examples of work
- 4) A completed application form (download here)
Deadline for Applications: Applications are due March 15. (Note: This is NOT a "postmarked by" deadline).
The scholarship recipient will be announced by May 15.
Applications should be addressed:
Attn: Seattle Metals Guild Scholarship Committee
P O Box 70407
Seattle, WA 98127
