Artist Blacksmith
In my latest artist blacksmithing project ‘Seeking Celestial Shadows’ are a series of sculptures which are inspired by ancient earthworks of astronomy and celestial constellations.
My forge work on this has involved a reoccurring crescent shape then assembled by rivets to form the sculpture. This collection includes static works and a kinetic sculpture based on an orrery. These works are aimed to excite the viewer's curiosity by observing the play of light and shadow across them.
My artwork has been inspired by artists such as Junko Mori, Leah Aripotch and Pete Mattila.
I take my design ideas from the natural environment and occasionally industrial type settings to create something unique. I also have a strong interest in archaeological and historical forging as it has a rich history which has set the scene for artistic blacksmithing.
In addition to metal work I enjoy experimenting in mixed media but also have a strong set of skills in greenwood working.
I first was introduced to these traditional crafts in 2006 with the Bill Hogarth Memorial Apprenticeship Trust, a coppicing organisation based in Cumbria.
Since then I have practised and honed these skills such as pole lathe wood turning and wood carving with tools such as a drawknife.
Greenwood work is a traditional skill of harvesting trees and working their timber fresh with the sap still present as this is easier to carve with hand tools. The item can then be slowly seasoned with final adjustments and finishes applied once the timber has stabilised.
In my past career having worked for Natural England and the National Trust I have developed a broad knowledge of woodland management and estate work.
Traditional crafts were and are part of this management. During the past our ancestors in small family industries knew deeply their connection with the natural world and how materials could be sustainably resourced from this.
Small woodland coppicing is an iconic example of harvesting patches of woodland. This creates a mosaic of different aged vegetation that benefits an intricate ecosystem ofplants, animals, invertebrates and fungi in .