Metal Arts Guild of Georgia Historical Overview

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In 1998, a group of likeminded metalsmiths, feeling the need for an organization to mentor, network, and nurture their interests in learning and mastery of metal art techniques, established the Georgia Goldsmith’s Group, now known as The Metal Arts Guild of Georgia.

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For the first 20 years, the membership ranks grew, as well as the programs and the Guild assets. The Guild brought a steady stream of world-renowned artists to Atlanta to teach a range of workshops for members. In addition, the Guild arranged for member participation in local festivals, organized tool and stone swaps, tours of local galleries, and built an inventory of tools and equipment to support members' increasing needs. All through this period they were a band of ‘roaming artisans’, pitching tents and setting up tables and tool stations wherever they could find workshop space at reasonable cost.

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Several visionary members saw the value of establishing a physical home. In May 2015, the Guild became a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. A location was leased and the space built out specifically for metalsmithing endeavors.  November 2016 marked the Grand Opening and offered even greater value for members. Four “member studios” were created as well as the establishment of the best equipped metalsmithing studio in the region. Class and workshop offerings increased markedly and the First ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE program of its kind in Georgia. Creativity has been fostered via regular Design Challenges, and MAGG hosts its own annual Art Jewelry Show and Sale, where members showcase and sell their creations in the fall of each year.

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MAGG was able to weather the pandemic by offering both virtual and in-person classes and by supporting a jewelry tool business on site.

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It's 2023 and our 25th anniversary. The future continues to look bright for MAGG as we continue to grow by offering a robust class and workshop schedule for an ever growing membership with diverse skills and interests.