William Holland School
More than 10 years ago, I found out about the William Holland School of Lapidary Arts, which sent my art into a different trajectory.
It is a lovely little school (my husband calls it “art camp”) nestled in the woods in Young Harris, Georgia. It’s just below the North Carolina state line (Hayesville).
They teach anything and everything to do with gems (recognizing and cutting) and jewelry making (everything from metal clay to chainmaille to metalsmithing to wire wrapping).
The school even has classes in basket making and leather work.
They teach everything…
A class
For a week each year, for under $500.00, I get room, board and my class, which starts on Sunday night after dinner and goes thru mid-afternoon on Friday (students can stay through breakfast on Saturday, if you need to).
Any other expense is kits and/or material fees from the teachers. The atmosphere is always warm, homey, and friendly.
- Classes are from 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Thursday, and Friday AM and some teachers allow you to work in the evening.
- They run from April until early November. They are for adults, plus there are some children’s classes for rock hounds.
The atmosphere here is friendly and homey
Ed’s copper flame paintings
I love being immersed in learning new skills each year. This year, my husband Ed came with me for the first time and did copper flame painting, a very sought-after class.
If you want inspiration and to learn some new skills, maybe this place is for you. Look them over at “lapidaryschool.org”.
By the way, I have no vested interest, other than seeing them thrive.
Warm regards,
Some of the etching things I made.
P.S. I currently have a few copper pieces on Etsy.
