Shane Prada, a dedicated educator and advocate for arts education, co-founded the Baltimore Jewelry Center (BJC) in 2013 to offer accessible learning opportunities in metalsmithing and jewelry to the Baltimore community. Beginning her journey in Baltimore as a Teach For America corps member, Shane's passion for arts education grew stronger over time. With a Master of Arts in Teaching from Johns Hopkins University, she played a pivotal role in establishing one of the city's first charter schools. Shane's deep connection to art jewelry and metalsmithing developed when she pursued evening classes at the Maryland Institute College of Art's Jewelry Center. Recognizing the need to preserve the legacy of the program after its discontinuation, Shane led the formation of the Baltimore Jewelry Center. As the BJC's director, she oversees administration, programming, fundraising, and community outreach. Alongside Shane, Elliot Keeley contributes to the BJC as a versatile artist and metalsmith with a background in metalsmithing and jewelry design. Based in Baltimore, Elliot's artistic exploration integrates ceramics, drawing, painting, and collage into metalwork, reflecting a unique approach to creativity and craftsmanship.
About the Baltimore Jewelry Center
The Baltimore Jewelry Center is an educational nonprofit building a vibrant creative community for the study and practice of metalsmithing and art jewelry. We educate and inspire new and established artists, as well as promote metalsmithing and art jewelry to the general public through exhibitions, community, and educational outreach.
In the course of this episode, we explore:
This is one episode you won't want to skip! Shane Prada and Elliot Keeley discuss the Baltimore Jewelry Center. They talk about the inspiration behind the center, the importance of accessible education in the arts, and the impact of being located in the Station North Arts District. They also highlight the diverse range of programs and opportunities offered by the center, including classes, workshops, studio access, residencies, and a gallery space.
Mentioned in this episode
Baltimore Jewelry Center
The Station North Arts & Entertainment Interview Series is supported by the Station North Art's District & Central Baltimore Partnership.
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This program is supported (in part) by a grant from the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation.
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Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard.
Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art.
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"The Truth In This Art," hosted by Rob Lee, is a podcast that explores the essence of creativity and its community impact, amplifying artists' voices and their profound stories.
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