Empowering women and girls by supporting their creativity.
Our Mission
We Wield the Hammer [WWTH] exists to identify, train, track and support young women of African descent who might not otherwise choose a career as a metalsmith. We seek to offer opportunities for artistic equity, economic empowerment and access to a vocation which is very often traditionally unavailable to women, particularly marginalized women and girls both here and abroad. Our training program begins the process of leveling the playing field in many ways, most especially at the entry point of skill building.
Our History
WWTH was founded in 2019 in Oakland, CA, though the idea for the program was gestated in Dakar, Senegal. The project is a training program that teaches the fundamentals of metalsmithing; the course is a an 8-week session designed to teach fabrication using precious metals.. Through this course, our students learn the art and practice using copper, brass and sterling silver. Graduates of the program can then go on to apprentice with local jewelers or even start their own businesses.
Our Founder
Karen Smith, Executive Director of WWTH, is a self-taught metal artist and arts educator. A Brooklyn, NY transplant, she is a longtime Oakland resident and was inspired to start the program after an apprenticeship in Dakar, Senegal. Her passion is to bring this vocation to women and girls of African descent around the globe.
FAQ
How do I apply for the program? How can I support the program? Can I teach for you? Our Frequently Asked Questions page answers most of the questions we receive. Check it out.
Today’s students.
Tomorrow’s leaders.
We encourage our students in many ways; we train them in metalsmithing but we also support and inspire them in all aspects of their lives. Read on to hear from them directly about what they receive from the program.
