Aran Galligan, a self-described “multidisciplinary material-smith” whose work is showcased at the Zee Tai Collective, is offering a series of semi-monthly workshops on making enamel jewelry, through Northwind Art.

Galligan, an artist and educator who uses they/them pronouns, is inviting prospective students of all skill levels to take part in their hands-on courses on vitreous enamel, exploring how glass can fuse to metal and create not only vibrant colors, but also virtually limitless potential textures and patterns.

Galligan’s Northwind Art series covers techniques for crafting specific patterns and colors, as well as organic forms and surfaces, as students learn how to make marks on enamel, and engage in both torch and kiln firing, to produce their own jewelry pieces.

Galligan has shared their expertise in metalsmithing and enameling through workshops they’ve taught across the country, which are imbued with their passion for exploring and experimenting with their materials.

Galligan encourages students to push their boundaries and “discover their own creative pathways,” which the teaching artist hopes will foster “a spirit of innovation,” and inspire learners to embrace new techniques and approaches in their artistic careers and creations.

Galligan followed their bachelor’s degree in craft and material studies with a master’s degree in metal, and has dedicated their artistic career to “exploring the intersection of technology and tradition across various mediums” ever since, from metal and ceramics to fiber and other materials, “blending traditional techniques with modern approaches.”

Galligan’s passion for sustainable sourcing frequently leads them to local used art supply and thrift stores, as well as salvage yards and antique malls to find both inspiration and materials for projects.

According to Galligan, they draw “from the history of the arts and crafts movements, and modern design principles,” not only in creating art, but in teaching others about art, metalsmithing and craft-and-art-based businesses, at institutions including Penland School of Craft, SUNY New Paltz and North Seattle College.

“I love sharing my knowledge to help others develop their creative skills,” said Galligan, who can also be found at the Zee Tai Collective, a community of artists and makers at 918 Water St. in downtown Port Townsend, and at their jewelry-selling booth at the Port Townsend Farmers Market on select Saturdays.

Galligan’s upcoming enameling classes at the Northwind Art School, at Fort Worden Historical State Park, include “Pattern and Color,” covering how to create “bold graphic designs” using stencils and sifting from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 3-4.

At the same times on June 28-29, Galligan will cover “Organic Forms and Surfaces,” leading students in experimenting with over-firing and torch-firing to create “expressive, textured designs.”

“Enamel Bookmarks” offers a single-day class on creating custom colorful metal bookmarks, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 13. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sept. 27-28, Galligan will present “Mark-Making in Enamel,” covering drawing and painting techniques on enameled surfaces.

All materials for the classes are provided, and no experience is necessary.