“Precision and Freedom” documents how artist Elaine Unzicker handcrafts chainmail dresses, and how the dresses became the foundation of a striking performance at the YWCA Kalamazoo’s 140th Anniversary Gala. Unzicker, who earned her Master of Fine Arts in jewelry and sculpture in the 1980s, had spent more than 35 years refining her chainmail techniques. What began as a four-day workshop evolved into a lifelong pursuit of blending structure with softness. She focused on small rings and thin wire to create pieces that were lightweight, comfortable, and fluid. Her goal was never to recreate armor for battle, but to transform metal into something graceful and wearable. Rather than feeling restrictive, the dresses feel alive—an extension of each performer’s movement and expression. Each of the seven dresses required between 30 and 50 hours of labor, along with extensive one-on-one fittings. Unzicker carefully studied every dancer’s height, build, and movement style, allowing each garment to reflect the individuality of its wearer. Working from her home studio, she methodically closed thousands of jump rings with needle-nosed pliers while her husband, Keith, assisted with measurements, photos, and organization. Despite tight deadlines, the couple approached the project with patience and enthusiasm. Funded in part by a grant from the Kalamazoo Artistic Development Initiative, the project represented years of dreaming and collaboration. Unzicker described it as a balance between “precision,” found in her exacting craftsmanship, and “freedom,” realized when dancers brought the dresses to life on stage. The performance, presented at the black-tie gala, supported the YWCA’s mission of equity, justice, and community advocacy. As the dancers performed, the chainmail transformed into symbols of strength and resilience. The shimmering garments amplified the performers’ presence, reinforcing the idea that beauty and power could coexist. For Unzicker, the project confirmed the importance of collaboration and mutual support in the arts. Every “yes” from funders, organizers, and dancers made the work possible. In the end, Precision and Freedom demonstrated how shared creativity could uplift a cause, strengthen a community, and turn metal into motion. Video produced by Lem Montero, and filmed and edited by Dan Stephens.