APPRENTICESHIP SUMMARY
Under the guidance of mentor Nisa Smiley, this apprenticeship will help Jesse Mixer elevate her jewelry-making skills and advance her professional practice. Jesse will refine her metalsmithing through advanced stone-setting and clasp-making techniques, explore precious metal clay, keum-boo, and goldsmithing to expand her work, and strengthen her professional presence through booth design, yearly planning, and exposure to craft shows and galleries. Through 100 hours of one-on-one studio training, this apprenticeship builds both creative skill and career sustainability.
MENTOR
Nisa Smiley (Ellsworth, Maine)
Nisa Smiley is an artist, metal-smith, and teacher, based in Ellsworth, Maine. Born and raised in northern New England, her work is deeply influenced and inspired by the Maine coastal landscape. She holds a BFA from the Maine College of Art (’00), is certified as a Precious Metal Clay instructor, and was awarded the Belvedere Craft Fellowship in ’21.
“I have great appreciation for Jesse’s aesthetic, and her dedication to her craft. We both share a love of the natural world, a love of jewelry, and a love of learning, so I’m confident that we will work well together, and I’m honored to provide guidance as she grows.” – Nisa Smiley
APPRENTICE
Jesse Mixer (Porter, Maine)
Jesse lives in Western Maine, near the White Mountains of New Hampshire, where she spent much of her youth wandering fields and forests and swimming in clear water, providing a lifetime of inspiration and love of the natural world.
Later, she spent several years exploring the West, working as a raft guide, farmer, and outdoor educator before returning to New England. Jesse enjoys working with her hands, primarily making jewelry (professionally), but also sculpture, painting, and knitting.
“I want to work with Nisa because I think her work is inspired, clean, and beautiful. Her attention to detail and obvious love of the natural world melds well with my work and inspiration. I am also impressed that she is a full-time creator and business owner. I have had my business for a number of years now, but it has yet to fully support me, which is my goal. I think learning from her will be educational, motivational, and a lot of fun! I am very excited to see where my work is In a year.” – Jesse Mixer