Delyth Done, Head of School at HCA, awarded MBE in recognition to her services to Artist Blacksmithing and Heritage Crafts

Glenn Adamson, the former head of research at the V&A and a world-renowned curator and writer on craft, design history and contemporary art said of Done:

“Craft, at its best, is almost always the work of many hands, and no one understands this better than Delyth Done. Through her teaching and ingenious curatorial work, she has shown that the ancient skill of blacksmithing can be a way of bringing people together in the 21st century. She is always forging connections and opening up new horizons for others, whether they’ve been working at the forge for years, or are just picking up a hammer for the very first time. We need more people like her in the world of craft – but we can at least be grateful for all she has done.”

“My experience at HCA has been massively shaped by the constant support and guidance of Del,” says Jessica Agar, a student at HCA. “Her passion for pedagogy and forged metalwork has been an on going inspiration to me in my studies. From our very first conversation it was clear to me she is a passionate educator with a commitment to every student.”

“Del’s hard work, dedication and commitment to her students are extraordinary and inspiring,” says student Rowan Lickerish, “The support and kindness she has shown me over the last three years have been at the core of a truly life changing experience.”

Encapsulating her importance to the global metal arts community, Professor Heiner Zimmermann of the University of Gothenburg says:

“I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the professional ethics and expertise that Delyth Done brings to the professional field of blacksmithing. Delyth’s actions speak for themselves, and she inspires everyone around her in an exceptional way. She is a true asset to the blacksmith world.”

See the full list of birthday honours here