Jake Vial-Golden

Emerging Artist

ARTIST’S BIO

Jake was born and raised in NorCal and still considers himself a California kid at heart. After spending much of his mid 20s living and traveling in Central and South America, Jake moved to the DMV for work at international non-profits. Burning out relatively quickly from that Jake needed something to fill his time as he transitioned to something new.

Jake's family has long filled their time crafting and creating things - both as art and as medicine. Jake had not yet found his own niche, but metals (silver specifically!), stones and jewelry had fascinated him from a very young age. With his newfound time he sought out a way to learn more. Coming across SilverWorks and feeling the energies align, he immediately dove in, taking Blair’s courses and spending many hours in Open Studio. Although still quite new to metalsmithing and jewelry making, Jake has found joy and self-discovery in the process of creating and learning. 

Now he brings that joy and energy to the studio sharing his experience as studio attendant for Open Studio and Guided Studio coach for Guided Studio. As studio coach his generous nature is only eclipsed by his signature laugh.

ARTIST STATEMENT

Statement of Practice: My work to this point has been guided by learning new techniques and applying them in varied ways. I find joy in learning and improving through repetition.

Emerging Artist: I left my previous jobs in international non-profit work seeking new direction, and discovering a new place of alignment at Silverworks, I immersed myself in metalsmithing. 5 years in, I have found that this is a craft that I have a deep desire to continue exploring.

Statement of Purpose: I hope to continue to expand my voice through metal with this residency. I want to improve my understanding of design to gain confidence in being artistically creative. I have also felt connected supporting others in their own discovery and journey. For the moment that has taken the form of being open and interactive with students while sitting for open studio. I want to continue to foster that energy and build connections.

Statement of Interest: During an ongoing time of transition in my life, Exnihilo allows me space to continue to explore and deepen my relationship with smithing. I also truly love the time I have spent at Silverworks.

Jake Vial-Golden

Body of work 2022-2023

Cage Necklace, Sterling Silver