The Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA) has a new course in blacksmithing instructed by Patrick Morrissey. Morrissey, a blacksmith and glass blower, is enthusiastic to be a part of the blacksmithing course and says, "So many times when we are making art, the positive and negative components are equally valuable." Defining the "positive" for Morrissey is an easy task, one that is all too evident and can be seen as he assists blacksmithing students−"I want to help the students create work that helps them graduate, and in part, helps them develop who they are," Morrissey said.

The course teaches artistic choices in all aspects of blacksmithing. It consists of making original works of art, forging techniques, creating tools, welding and general fabrication, building blacksmithing equipment, and operating gas forges. John Herrera, an IAIA studio arts student, says, "The thing that I like about metal is that it is very forgiving." Herrera is no stranger to blacksmithing and previously sought instruction at another college but chose to continue his studies at IAIA instead. While tracing the figure of a snake on half inch steel he says, "IAIA allows me to celebrate my culture....and, there is a lot to see (and learn from) here on campus."

Interested to see blacksmithing students forging their creativity in the sculpture studio? View a gallery of photographs on IAIA's Facebook page.

Visit IAIA during our annual open house. View our facilities, like the cutting-edge and ever popular digital dome, the newly-built Lloyd "Kiva" New Welcome Center and its alumni art exhibit, artist studios, blacksmithing foundry, and more. You will also have an opportunity to meet with faculty, staff, and students during this once a year event.

IAIA's open house will include the following:

• Allan Houser Exhibition (selections from the artist's archives and collection)
• Dedication of Allan Houser Sculpture/Foundry Building at 4 pm
• Student art for sale
• Art demonstrations
• Library book sale
• Tours, activities, and refreshments

All activities are free and open to the public. Please visit www.iaia.edu for directions.

As the only four-year degree granting institution in the nation devoted to the art of Native Americans, voter-approved funds for the construction and upgrading of facilities throughout the campus are critical in ensuring IAIA's commitment to empowering creativity and leadership in our students. Higher Education General Obligation Bond C will provide critical funding to help plan, design, construct and equip a multipurpose fitness and performing arts center on the IAIA campus.

No Tax Increase. GO Bond C will ensure that university students in New Mexico remain competitive with students from around the globe by improving infrastructure and providing the tools and materials needed to be successful. This will be done with NO increase in property taxes, period.

Higher Education Bond C is not just about buildings. It's about ensuring our higher-ed students have the facilities and tools they need to excel. You don't have to be enrolled in a college or university to care about higher education. We all have a stake in this issue-New Mexico needs quality institutions that provide education and training in up-to-date buildings and facilities. In addition, we ALL need the 1,400 architectural, engineering, construction and related jobs that Bond C will add to local economies around the state. Help our students compete today and contribute to New Mexico's economy when they graduate. Vote Yes on GO Bond C November 4.

For more information, visit www.higheredbondc.com.

This newsletter edition includes a new feature that highlights the excellence and accomplishments of our faculty and staff. IAIA's staff and faculty are consistently involved in research, scholarly, and artistic activities that help to further IAIA's outstanding reputation.

Some recent professional accomplishments include:

• Jamison Chas Banks, Adjunct Faculty, Printmaking
  Accomplishment: The first Native American male to be included in a SITE Santa Fe Biennial.
• JoAnn Bishop, Staff, Fitness & Wellness Center Director
  Accomplishment: Received PSE archery certification in archery shooter, instructor, and technical areas.
• Peter M. Kershaw, Adjunct Faculty, Cinematic Arts
  Accomplishment: Award-winning short film The Astronomer's Sun selected for inclusion in the Filmstock Film International Festival.
• Suzanne M. Willener, Staff, Assistant Store Manager, Museum of Contemporary Native Arts
  Accomplishment: Recent IAIA graduate with an Associates in Fine Arts

Art in the Raw: October 8-November 7, 2014.
View a gallery of photographs from the opening and reception on IAIA's Facebook page.

Senior Thesis: November 20, 2014, 5 pm, opening and reception
Seniors include Edsel Brown, Mildred Raphaelito, Beatresea Kien, Neva Baird, Shontysa Joe, Azizah Muhammad, Jamelyn Ebelacker, and Tahnee Growingthunder.