Wendy Springfield has been teaching gold and silversmithing on the Tweed since 1987, starting at Twin Towns Skillshare soon after leaving Queensland College of Art where she studied for a Diploma of Fine Art. Since then she has been teaching introductory and advanced courses at community and TAFE colleges in Kingscliff, Brisbane, Ipswich, Gold Coast, Byron and Lismore, as well as Tweed Heads. Wendy has been manufacturing and designing jewellery since 1980, selling at art galleries and various retail markets in South East Qld and Northern NSW. She repairs, renovates and designs custom jewellery on request. wspringfield@bigpond.com .
Wendy has a TAE Cert. IV in Assessment and Training; Cert. IV in TESOL; and a Bachelor of Arts from Southern Cross University, majoring in Cultural Studies, History and Writing. She has written, tutored and designed her own short courses, as well as adapting a silversmithing course to comply with Certificate II in Design for groups of High School Students attending Kingscliff TAFE.
It is exciting to watch the creativity of individual students and the constantly changing and evolving dynamics of the many groups I have taught. From the first lesson it is hands on to master the many tools and to learn how to use the equipment and make the most of the precious metal (silver) that we use in my classes. People enjoy the knowledge gained of the ancient yet modern trade of goldsmithing. Many appreciate the mastery of the tools, physics and chemistry resulting in some beautiful designs and jewellery that will last a lifetime. I have a way of instilling confidence in the most challenged of participants, from the very young to the aged. Physical and mental challenges can be overcome with patience and methodology. I enjoy the joviality and company of the people I teach. The course is designed for the serious student who wishes to pursue a jeweller’s career, or as a stimulating, challenging, meditative, leisure activity. Either way the pleasure is in seeing the beautiful works of art that my students create and wear, or give as loving mementos to family and friends.