top of page

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE IN THE FIELD

Colorful, enameled pear-shaped containers with small lids all lined up in a vitrine.

The Metal Museum recognizes Master Metalsmiths as the foremost metal artists of their time. Since 1983, this distinction has been awarded to exceptional artists from across the country who specialize in fabrication, metalsmithing, blacksmithing, enameling, casting and other areas of hands-on metalwork. Honorees have a proven track record of over 20 years of studio work and often dedicate part of their careers to teaching their craft.  
 

The Museum collaborates with a committee of artists to identify leaders, experts, and educators in the field. To date, nearly 40 internationally renowned metalsmiths have been honored through this exhibition series, showcasing their work in Memphis. 

MASTER METALSMITHS

2024, Preston Jackson
2023, Rachelle Thiewes
2022, Lynda Watson
2021, Kim Cridler
2019, Sarah Perkins
2018, Lisa Gralnick
2017, David Secrest
2016, Hoss Haley
2015, Linda Threadgill
2014, Myra Mimlitsch-Gray
2013, Thomas Latané
2012, Eleanor Moty
2011, Fred Fenster (d.)
2010, Michael Jerry
2009, Elizabeth Brim
2008, Gary Griffin
2007, Thomas Madden
2006, Richard Prillaman
2005, Elliott Pujol
2004, Harriete Estel Berman
2003, Peter Ross
2002, Harlan Butt
2001, Tim McCreight
2000, Richard Kimball (d.)
1999, Marilyn da Silva
1998, Pat Flynn
1997, Heikki Seppa (d.)
1996, Tom Joyce
1995, Bruce LePage
1994, Mary Lee Hu
1993, Curtis Lafollette
1991, John Marshall
1990, Carl Jennings (d.)
1989, Helen Shirk
1988, Gary Noffke
1987, Richard Mawdsley
1984, L. Brent Kington (d.)
1983, Phillip Fike (d.)

The Metal Museum stipulates the following criteria for Master Metalsmiths: 

 

  • A Master Metalsmith must demonstrate a minimum of 20 years of professional studio practice, showcasing a sustained and successful career in the field. 

  

  • The majority of the artist's body of work must be created by the artist themselves, with minimal reliance on outsourcing or studio assistance, particularly during the early stages of their career. 

 

  • Master Metalsmiths should be prepared to actively contribute to the creation of their exhibition and the associated catalog, ensuring a collaborative and comprehensive representation of their work. 

 

  • The artist attends and participates in Repair Days, scheduled to take place in the fall while their exhibition is open to the public. 

bottom of page