A Universal joint is a joint or coupling that allows parts not in line with each other limited freedom of movement in any direction while being capable of transmitting rotary motion. Universal joints are particularly well suited for linking and hinge devices for kinetic sculpture, jewelry, or objects where a flexible joint, swivel or hinging action is useful or desirable. Through technical demonstrations, discussions, slides and an examination of U-joint samples, special emphasis will be placed on problem-solving and creative applications in a variety of formats and approaches. Engineering and mechanical principles of universal joints and swivels are discussed, along with useful soldering and fabrication strategies which can be applied to numerous procedures, in the jeweler’s, metalsmith’s, and sculptor’s studios.
Tom Muir is Distinguished Research Professor at Bowling Green State University, where he is head of the Jewelry and Metalsmithing area in the School of Art. He received his MFA from Indiana University, Bloomington, and his BFA degree from Georgia State University in Atlanta. Mr. Muir has lectured and taught widely, holding positions at universities and craft schools around the country. His award-winning work has been published and exhibited extensively in art, craft and design exhibitions, in which he has received numerous awards. Collections include the Art Institute of Chicago, Renwick Gallery of the National Museum of American Art, Smithsonian Institution and The White House Collection of American Crafts, National Museum of American Art, Smithsonian Institution. He is the recipient of an Arts Midwest/National Endowment for the Arts Regional Artist Fellowship, Michigan Council for the Arts Fellowship, and numerous Ohio Arts Council Individual Artist Fellowship Awards. In 2009, Tom received the Outstanding Achievement Award from the Ohio Designer Craftsmen for having made a major contribution to craft in Ohio.
Instructor website: tommuir.org
Instagram: @tommuirmetalsmith