Iron Spring Concentration
March 3 – April 26, 2024 (8 Weeks)
Anna R. Koplik
Tongs, Hammers, and Other Slammers
This workshop will explore the self-sufficient nature of blacksmithing as students make a series of tools. Each tool will aid in the creation of the next and this series of projects will help develop basic forging skills. We’ll make hammers, tongs, top tools, power hammer tooling, bending forks and jigs, and more. The workshop structure will allow students to make tools to suit their interests, culminating in making functional or sculptural projects of their own design. Demonstrations will focus on refining forging technique, proper heat treatment, and finishing. We’ll work to understand how form and function go hand in hand. Expect lots of hand hammering, striking with sledgehammers, power hammer work, a welcoming and inclusive environment, and breaks for dance parties. All levels.
Artist fellow at Peters Valley (NJ), journeyman architectural blacksmith, tool and utensil maker; teaching: Penland, Touchstone (PA), Peters Valley (NJ), Haystack (ME), Center for Metal Arts (PA), Campbell Folk School (NC), Desert Metal Craft (AZ), Brookfield (CT), She-Weld (NY), Dragons Breath Forge (CT); recent exhibition: Penland Gallery.
Scholarship application deadline is August 15.
Regular enrollment begins October 2.
