The Sharon Boardway SMG Matriculated Student Scholarship

In Sharon Boardway's spirit, the SMG is offering this scholarship for a matriculated student.

Sharon Boardway (1962-2000) received her Master of Fine Arts degree from the State University of New York at New Paltz and moved to Seattle soon after. Her work was perhaps most recognizable for her use of carved gem leaves, cast natural objects and beach stones, whose surfaces were sandblasted away to leave raised areas of flowing text. This highly regarded work was shown at exhibitions nationally and featured in galleries including Ragazzi's Flying Shuttle in Seattle, Mobilia in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and in the Linda Richman Gallery in Milwaukee.

Perhaps Sharon describes herself best in this quote taken from an article in Ornament Magazine: "I tend to be a gatherer. I look at the ground where I walk and the trees and plants around me. I think it was the author of Annie Dillard who said that the whole world is in your backyard if you just look."

Sharon faced her future with courage, resolution and dignity. The honesty, integrity, and sense of humor with which she lived her life and conducted her career were hallmarks of the Sharon that our community knew.

Description: One grant of a maximum of $500 will be awarded. This grant is designed to be used by the student to their discretion. The grant is need-based and is awarded based on merit with a preference for upper level students with experience in metalsmithing.

In exchange for this grant, the recipient is asked to make a presentation to the general membership on their trip and what they learned. This presentation can be a live lecture, an article in the newsletter, a demonstration, a workshop or a video. Although this presentation is not required, it is encouraged, with the intention of creating dialogue between members and to share experiences. The Guild will archive this presentation and retains the right to use the presentation material at any future date. Recipients can make arrangements for the presentation with the selection committee after being notified of their award.

Eligibility: This scholarship is available to any current Seattle Metals Guild member over the age of 18 or with parental consent who is a matriculated student working towards a degree in metals or a related field. Applicants must reside in the Pacific Northwest, which is comprised of Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington.

Application: Application packets will not be returned. If you were not awarded during the first selection, your application will not automatically reviewed for the next quarter. If you want to be considered again, you must reapply. All applications must include the following:

  • 1) A statement of purpose (maximum 1 page) including the following:
    • This scholarship is need-based. Explain your need.
    • Artist statement
  • 2) A current resume, including all jobs related to your field of studies. Please include an academic reference.
  • 3) Digital examples of current work (if applicable)
  • 4) A completed application form (download here)

Deadline for Applications: Applications are due May 15. (Note: This is NOT a "postmarked by" deadline).

The scholarship recipient will be announced by July 15th. Funds will be made available by September 15.

Applications should be addressed:

Attn: Seattle Metals Guild Scholarship Committee
P O Box 70407
Seattle, WA 98127

  • The Ramona Solberg SMG Travel Grant
  • The Kris Williams SMG Continued Education Scholarship
  • The Ruth Pennington SMG Teaching Grant
  • The Sharon Boardway SMG Matriculated Student Scholarship
  • The George Mclean SMG Specific Project Grant

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