"Monterey Bay Metal Arts Guild: Promoting Metal Arts" logo with an icon to the left of the text containing outlines of the following: digital calipers white outline on gold; upper right = white outline of chain nose pliers on black; lower right = white graver outline on blue; lower left = hammer outline on dark gray. The colors signify gold, iron or patina, the ocean, and silver

A Links Challenge

Links Challenge - MBMAG

MBMAG presents:  THE LINKS CHALLENGE

Quite a few years ago the MBMAG asked each of the members to create a small piece of work that would reflect their style.  This piece would have a means to connect it on both ends and once linked together would become one chain of unique works.

A photograph of a portion of the Original Links Project is above.  

In 2015, the guild held a challenge for new “Links” which continued to demonstrate each of our member’s style and personality.  The new chain is being exhibited, along with the original chain at some of our exhibits and events.

The individual pieces should range from 1″ x 1″ to 1-1/2″ x 2″.
The key is that it should be linkable and reflect the individual’s style.

Guildelines of A Links Challenge:

  • MBMAG members who accepted the challenge purchased a kit for $25.  One kit per member.
  • There were 9 items in the kit ie:  Sterling Silver Sheet, Copper Wire, Silver tubing, etc.
  • Kits were given out at the Summer MBMAG Gathering, August 16,2015.
  • Members who were not able to attend the Summer Gathering could purchase a kit with an added $5 fee for shipping. Orders made after the gathering were subject to availability of kits on hand.
  • Each entry was required to include at least  5 of the 9 materials included in the kit, to be eligible for the prize money.
  • Artists were allowed one wildcard item, such as a cabachon stone, Enamel, Resin, glass, pencil, found object, etc.
  • Any fabrication technique or combination of techniques could be used, for example: fusing, soldering, roller mill, etching, fold forming,  rivets, etc.
  • The Link had to be completed for the Winter MBMAG party where members voted for Best Link, and artists were asked to photograph their link and write a paragraph about the link.
  • The voting was done without names of the Artist.
  • Prize Money was: 1st Place $250. 2nd Place $100. 3rd Place $50.
  • All links became part of the MBMAG Chain and property of MBMAG. The MBMAG Links Chain is displayed at various MBMAG events.
  • Deadline date to order kit was August 5th, 2015.

Participation was limited to current MBMAG members.  As always, anyone is welcome to become a member and participate.  Join here.  Once you’ve joined, you’ll have access to the Member Area.