Two Fine Arts Students and Professor to Participate in Summer Course in Finland

Two students and a faculty member from Fairmont State University will be traveling to Helsinki, Finland, to participate in a class on metal casting during the summer session.

The sculpture-oriented class is offered through Shepherd University and hosted by the University of the Arts in Helsinki. The sculpture departments and faculty of FSU and Shepherd have recently collaborated, often being invited or extending an invitation to pour metal at both campuses.

Shepherd Professor Christian Benefiel, who is teaching the class, opened the course to FSU students Kaitlin Shaffer and Emily Hart. Jeremy Entwistle, Fairmont State’s Assistant Professor of Art in 3D and Sculpture, was also asked to be a visiting artist for the course as well.

“It is a great opportunity for all of us,” said Entwistle. “The class will be pattern/mold making and foundry intensive with ample opportunity for everyone to take part in local and regional cultural activities.”

The six-week course is designed to immerse students in Finnish design, art and culture. The first part of the course will revolve around bronze and aluminum casting and the second half will focus on iron casting. There will be a one-week break between sessions so students can travel and explore the region.

School of Fine ArtssculptureDepartment of ArtJeremy Entwistle