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resistance and flow
that their material offers. Contemporary
iron
work uses the processes of traditional blacksmithing,
sometimes in combination with welding and
other
steel forming processes, to make functional utensils,
architectural elements, furniture, and sculpture.
To experience a smithy is to feel heat from
the
fire, smell smoke from the coal, and hear the
sounds of hammering. Blacksmithing is known
as
a rugged craft, but anvils have been played to
sound like finely tuned bells.
Metalwork also includes fine
gold, silver, pewter, and copper objects that
embody an expression of the hand unique to cold
worked metal. Fine metals are used to produce
utensils like dinnerware, objects like teapots,
and jewelry. In combination with the gemstones,
bone, plastic and other materials, metalwork is
characterized or enabled by a willingness to appreciate
the beauty of delicate, small objects. Metalwork
depends upon intimacy and precision. It requires
restraint, attention to detail, and an appreciation
for the social messages of adornment.
- Jean McLaughlin
Contemporary Craft Curator
Most traditional artists
who work in metal, like the renowned blacksmith
Philip Simons, came to the craft out of the necessity
of learning a trade. As a boy, Simmons apprenticed
locally with a blacksmith learning how to shoe horses,
build wagons and repair boat equipment. Such training
gave him the skill to go on to become a Charleston
renowned ironworker, specializing in ornamental
wrought iron work that adorns the city. Trained
as a blacksmith, Simmons has evolved “banging
iron” into other creative and innovative forms.
- Kathleen
Mundell
Traditional Arts Curator
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