Honouring the Legacy of Orland M. F. Larson

Faces of AUArts is a centennial series highlighting the founders, faculty and other influential voices who shape the past, present and future of our institution.

Orland Larson hammering metal at the bench.

Among these formative figures is Orland M. F. Larson (1931-2026), a pioneering goldsmith and educator whose impact helped define jewellery and metalsmithing at Alberta College of Art during a critical period of growth in the 1980s.

“The purpose of craft education is not simply to train the hand, but to develop the mind that understands materials, design and responsibility to the object being made.”
— Orland M. F. Larson

Larson brought a bold and expansive vision for craft education to ACA from 1980 to 1991. Having established Canada’s first university-level jewellery and metalsmithing program at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design, he arrived at Alberta College of Art with a commitment to building rigorous, studio-based learning grounded in both technical excellence and critical thinking. His leadership helped shape a dynamic program that would influence generations of students and contribute to the broader evolution of craft education in Canada.

Orland Larson working on a silver goblet in the jewellery studio at the Alberta College of Art. — Orland Larson working on a silver goblet in the jewellery studio at Alberta College of Art.

A passionate advocate for the value of professional craft, Larson’s influence extended far beyond the studio. He served as National President of the Canadian Crafts Council, was a founding member of the Society of North American Goldsmiths and contributed internationally through the World Crafts Council. Named Canada’s Craft Ambassador in 1992–1993, he travelled across the country championing the role of craft in cultural and artistic life. His work is held in major collections, including the Canadian Museum of History.

Faculty at the Alberta College of Art including Orland Larson (on left). — Faculty at Alberta College of Art including Orland Larson (on left).

In his later years, Larson continued to shape discourse around craft, advocating for the term “artisan” to better reflect the intention, discipline and responsibility behind creative practice.

AUArts acknowledges Larson’s passing in February this year with gratitude for a legacy that continues to shape how craft is taught, practiced and understood within our community and beyond.

Photos courtesy of the Larson family.