ELORA – The Fire and Steel Contemporary Blacksmithing exhibition at the Elora Centre for the Arts marks the first time artist blacksmiths have collaborated to organize an art gallery exhibition in Ontario.
This collection of imaginative, handmade objects represents a cross-section of functional, architectural and sculptural ironwork from forges across Southwestern Ontario.
This compelling body of work is an honest expression of what’s capturing the imagination of blacksmiths, who make a living hammering hot metal in order to re-shape it into useful, pleasing or thought-provoking objects of art.
The artist blacksmiths use traditional and modern techniques to visualize, form, shape and create their work.
The art form is logical, yet mysterious and highly sophisticated, using design visualization and skill to shape hot steel with hammer, anvil and fire.
Many perceive the art of contemporary metalwork is based on iron strength and brawn.
That is not necessarily so.
“The smithing craft is based on subtlety not on brute force,” said David Robertson, one of the artist blacksmiths in the Fire and Steel exhibition. “I am always coaxing the ironwork to shape, not forcing it.
“It is more of a gentle persistent process than an aggressive one.”
Sandra Dunn, an internationally recognized artist blacksmith believes imagination is at the heart of contemporary metalwork.
The secret is a rigorous design process that enables her to bring unique ideas to life for her clients.
“Everyone’s character ends up being expressed in their work,” Dunn said.
The group of 15 artist blacksmiths in Fire and Steel are part of the Ontario Artist Blacksmith Association (OABA) and have varied techniques and creative styles.
They work with fire at the forge, where they heat metal until it reaches temperature high enough to be drawn out, cut into, opened up, pinched, twisted and rolled.
The opening night reception for Fire and Steel will take place at the Elora Centre for the Arts on Feb. 21 from 7 to 9pm.
The exhibit will be on until March 31.
Enjoy light refreshments and live DJ music, learn about the art of metalworking and meet the talented artists behind the exhibition.
