SIMS Conference 2026
About this Event
Welcome to SIMS Conference 2026
Join us for a weekend of demonstrations, artist talks, networking, and community with metalsmiths, jewelers, blacksmiths, students, and educators from across the region and beyond.
We are excited to welcome visiting artists Sunyoung Cheong and Adam Hawk, whose innovative approaches to metalwork continue to inspire makers and students alike. Their solo shows, presentations, and demonstrations will offer unique insights into contemporary practice, material exploration, and artistic research.
Whether you're a longtime member of the SIMS community or attending for the first time, the 2026 conference promises opportunities to learn, connect, and be inspired.
Friday 9/4
🕑: 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Blacksmithing Demo
Host: Adam Hawk
Info: Saltwater Etching (Pulliam Industrial, Blacksmithing Studio, Room 016)
🕑: 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM
Lunch Break
🕑: 01:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Small Metals Demo
Host: Sunyoung Cheong
Info: Digital Modelling, Die Making w/ 3D printing, Hydraulic Press Forming (Pulliam Industrial, Metals Studio, Room 104)
🕑: 05:00 PM - 05:45 PM
Artist Talk
Host: Adam Hawk
Info: Sharp Museum Auditorium, Room 1526
🕑: 05:45 PM - 06:30 PM
Artist Talk
Host: Sunyoung Cheong
Info: Sharp Museum Auditorium, Room 1526
🕑: 06:30 PM - 08:00 PM
Gallery Reception
Info: Sharp Museum Lobby
Food & refreshments provided
Saturday 9/5
🕑: 09:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Blacksmithing Demo
Host: Adam Hawk
Info: Hydraulic Press Forming Textured Steel (Pulliam Industrial, Blacksmithing Studio, Room 016)
🕑: 11:30 AM - 02:00 PM
Lunch Break & Community Activities
Info: OPEN TO PUBLIC! Meet us in the Pulliam Industrial loading dock for a picnic style lunch and community building fun. $5/plate, FREE to registered conference attendees and children under 18yrs of age.
🕑: 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Small Metals Demo
Host: Sunyoung Cheong
Info: Digital Modelling, Die Making w/ 3D printing, Hydraulic Press Forming (Pulliam Industrial, Metals Studio, Room 104)
🕑: 05:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Hammer Time Happy Hour
Host: Oakland Station
Info: OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! Join us at 300 S Oakland Ave for Happy Hour. Grab a drink, mingle with artists and the Southern Illinois community, and peruse the raffle and auction items before the bids begin.
🕑: 07:00 PM - 09:00 PM
Auction Night
Host: Oakland Station
Info: OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! Support the Southern Illinois Metalsmiths Society by bidding on handmade art donated by the talented artists in our community (all mediums). Food, drink, and raffle opportunities will also be available during the event. Hosted by Oakland Station cocktail bar at 300 S Oakland Ave.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00 to USD 39.19
