Hopi Jewelry: Stone Setting, Overlay & Stamps

Explore the uniquely classic Hopi overlay technique of metalsmithing, as well as the art of setting cabochons and the creation of your own set of stamps. Stamps are personal silversmithing tools that embellish your silversmithing work. Hopi Silver overlay designs are created using multiple sheet silver layers with hand cut-out designs. These layers are textured, recessed layers are oxidized, and top layers are finely polished to create a contrast in silverwork. Roy will also demonstrate the Tufa Casting technique and other techniques such as shadow box with time permitting. Close instruction means this workshop is well-suited for all levels of students. Discuss the evolution of styles from traditional to contemporary. Draw inspiration from Roy’s stories and insights, or draw from your ideas, insights, and experiences.
Note: With the many techniques in silversmithing to be covered throughout this workshop, you will be encouraged to start two pieces and focus entirely on finishing at least one to take home at the end of the week.
Beginners: Learn about silversmithing’s primary materials, processes, and techniques.
Intermediate/Advanced: If you have some experience, you will fine-tune your skills while mastering new techniques. You also may choose to learn the shadow box technique, time permitting.
- Silver Casting Grain, 4 oz. minimum (this will be enough for a pendant, small buckle, or narrow bracelet)
- Closed-toe shoes, and hair tie or way to keep hair pulled back (studio safety)
Optional:
- Crucible (preferred: high back dish crucible, short handle OR salamander clay crucible 4 ¼ x 3 ¾”, both available at Rio Grande Jewelry Supply.
- Ceramic tools (metal), dental tools – to make into your tools
- OptiVisor
- Hand tools: files, saw frame, hammers, pliers (round, flat, or needle nose), and any other basic tools you like to use.
- Small work lamp
- Seat cushion
Note: Please make sure all materials are clearly marked and identified!
Tufa stone and some silver sheet will be available for purchase.
Roy Talahaftewa (Hopi, Water Clan) is from Shungopovi Village in Arizona. He works in silver and gold and uses Hopi overlay and tufa casting in his designs. Roy received the first major award for his work in 1981 and has earned Best of Show at the Heard Museum, among many other juried competitions. Working with the nonprofit Hopi Pu’tavi Project, Roy teaches Hopi youth the art of metalsmithing, and he is an advocate and promoter of Hopi artists on the reservation.
Native American & Inland Empire Teacher Scholarships
Generous donors have made scholarships and fellowships for adult workshops available on a limited basis for these specific groups:
1) Native American Community Leaders, Artists, Members, and Teachers
2) Inland Empire Teachers, Professors, and Graduate Students
Scholarships include tuition, dorm housing, and all meals provided by the campus dining service.
Scholarship Details:
1) Native American Community Members, Leaders, Artists, and Teachers
For adults 19 and older with current tribal affiliation, the scholarship brings community leaders, artists, members, and teachers to workshops at Idyllwild Arts to benefit both the scholarship recipients themselves and those in their schools or tribal communities. Applicants with financial needs may receive priority. We also offer scholarships for Native American Teens for both the Summer Program and the Academy.
2) Inland Empire Teachers, Professors, and Graduate Students
For teachers and graduate students from the Inland Empire (Riverside and San Bernardino Counties and the adjacent areas), this scholarship brings teachers and graduate students to Idyllwild Arts to attend Native American Arts workshops. The Native American Arts Workshops benefit both recipients and their students and communities, providing culturally appropriate instruction and professional development to teachers and graduate students. Applicants with financial needs may receive priority. These scholarships are made possible through the generous support of the San Manuel Band of Serrano Mission Indians.
Click here for more information about adult scholarships.
Age: 19 years and above
Dates: June 20-24, 2022
One-week session
Tuition, room, and board: $1,515
Day student tuition: $790
Lab Fee: $80
Includes use of all tools, equipment, and consumables such as solder and compounds
Skill Level: All level
Enrollment is limited to 12 students
Faculty: Roy Talahaftewa
