04/08/2022 12:00:00 AMJames Thurman, associate professor of art, uses functional objects to connect audiences. EssaysVisual ArtsCollege of Visual Arts and DesignArtstory "As a metalsmith, I use functional objects as a way of connecting my audience with the concepts of my artworks. For example, this teapot, titled 'Wrath of Poseidon,' serves as an embodiment of the ocean's anger with humanity's centuries of abuse. This piece is part of a recent series of artworks where I have been incorporating meticulously hand-painted miniatures with my metalwork to help tell the story of the piece." -- James Thurman, associate professor and coordinator of studio art: metalsmithing and jewelry program in UNT's College of Visual Arts and Design.