Artist Blacksmithing

This is a unique degree for creative makers who want to explore forged metal as a medium. Leaders in forged metal design education, our programme provides a particular opportunity to learn forging whilst developing a strong personal design methodology within an art school context.

Over three years you will be supported in establishing a strong personal design methodology.  You will explore a multitude of creative possibilities that encompass architectural work, product, and sculpture. You will be encouraged to develop robust critical thinking and be able to place your work within a wider cultural landscape of creative practice. You will be given space and guidance to become a resilient, self-aware practitioner who is able to communicate with clarity and authenticity. Become part of a vibrant educational environment where theoretical understanding is integrated with practical expertise; constantly expanding and testing the potential for artist blacksmithing as a contemporary craft discipline.

On this course you will:

• Learn core forging techniques, tool use and safe workshop practices

• Experiment with mixed materials, digital tools and 3D design processes

• Learn steel fabrication and welding

• Explore a variety of outcomes in sculpture, architectural metalwork & functional design

• Successfully communicate your creative intentions and effectively promote your work

• Work on real briefs, and competitions and public-facing exhibitions.

• Build a professional portfolio

INDUSTRY LINKS

Learn from internationally recognised smiths, sculptors and metalwork designers through demonstrations, talks and masterclasses. You will gain industry insight and work experience through live briefs and exhibitions. Previous guest speakers include Pete Matilla (Tasmania), Stephen Yusko (US), Janne Peltokangas (Finland). Leaders of the annual masterclass week include Peter Braspennix (US), Will Maguire (Australia) and Roberto Giordani (Italy).

FACILITIES

You will have access to:

• Specialist forge facilities at the National School of Blacksmithing, equipped with multiple hearths, anvils, gas and coke forges, power hammers, a hydraulic press, welding equipment, grinding and finishing stations.

• Fabrication workshops with sheet metal benders, rollers, CNC laser & plasma cutters and die grinders for precision work

• 3-D workshops in small metals, woodwork, casting, ceramics, textiles and print

• State-of-the-art digital facilities for design and 3-D modelling

• A specialist art and design library

• A personal workspace in the course studio

CAREERS

Graduates progress into practical forging roles such as independent designer maker, setting up a blacksmith workshop, working in established businesses forging and fabricating domestic and interior products, sculptural and architectural metalwork, working on heritage and restoration projects. Often graduates choose to expand their experience by undertaking postgraduate study such as HCA’s MA Forged Metal Arts or a journeymanship. Many also take up teaching positions either within colleges as technical demonstrators or teaching forging in community and private workshops.

SUSTAINABILITY AND ETHICAL PRACTICE

You will consider sustainability through energy-aware forging, responsible material sourcing, recycled metals, long-lasting design, conservation-focused approaches and durable, repairable outcomes.

EXTERNAL OPPORTUNITIES

As part of professional practice, you will be able to take part in the Tools for Schools project working with The Cart Shed charity leading small metal repoussé workshops for young makers. Many of our students participate in events, competitions and opportunities such as Octagon & School is Cool (Centre for Metal Arts), the biannual World Forging Championships, Biennale Europea d’Arte Fabbrile, Stia, Italy. Each year you have the opportunity to make work for Hereford Cathedral in a live brief, making & exhibiting site-responsive work.

Course Modules

From your first day at HCA you will work as a creative, developing your skills and your own voice through a series of projects. You will develop your creative practice, practical skills alongside your critical awareness and theoretical knowledge. You will study a range of modules that build your knowledge and confidence and total 120 credits each year.

YEAR ONE: Practice in Context 1 (20 Credits), Practice 1  (30), Practice 2 (30), Foundations for Learning  (20). Skills 1  (20)

YEAR TWO: Practice in Context 2  (20), Practice 3  (30), Practice 4 (30), Professional Practice 1  (20), Skills 2  (20)

YEAR THREE: Practice in Context 3  (20), Practice 5  (30), Practice 6 (60), Professional Practice 2  (10)