All That Glitters: A Women’s Metalsmith Collective Reception

This eclectic group of women met while taking classes in metalwork at Charmtree Jewelry Studio in Stevensville which is owned by Melissa Kay, one of the exhibitors. While they come from many different backgrounds and careers, they have found their bliss in jewelry-making and glass work.

It was early in 2022 that local artist, Linda Starling, who is a member of Main Street Gallery and who specializes in beach glass and silver jewelry, envisioned a holiday show at MSG with her Charmtree classmates. She says that after taking classes and working alongside all seven women and watching them grow not only in artistry but in friendship, she thought a show together might be an exciting next step. That first show was so successful that the artists decided to try it again and are happy to show together once more. Linda explains that these classmates have become an important  network for her and each other. They routinely share ideas and new techniques and while working together they continually  challenge each other.  The extra added bonus, she says, has been the lasting friendships they have formed. Through their classes the artists have learned or improved upon their skills in fabrication, metal clay, soldering, enameling and more and all have continued in their education taking online classes and traveling to learn from some of the best in the jewelry industry.

Main Street Gallery is open Thursdays through Sundays from 11 to 5 and online shopping is always available at: mainstgallery.net. The gallery is located at 518 Poplar St. and is Cambridge‘s only artist-owned and operated cooperative. The gallery is currently reviewing work from prospective members and guest artists. Please contact them through their website or by calling 410–330–4659 if you are interested in being part of this vibrant artist community.