HCA students featured on Sky Arts show Bill Bailey’s Master Crafters: The Next Generation

Three of HCA’s talented artist blacksmithing degree students were selected for the first episode of Bill Bailey’s Master Crafters: The Next Generation.

The show spotlights the remarkable quality and range of heritage crafts in the UK, with the first episode focused on forging.

Artist Blacksmithing degree course leader Del Done MBE said: "We are immensely proud of our students' extraordinary talent being showcased on such a prestigious platform. 

“Watching our students represent themselves, their craft, and our institution on the Master Crafters programme was a joy. Their exceptional talent, unwavering commitment, and enthusiastic engagement were evident throughout the show.”

Shot in part on campus last summer, Georgia Stevens, Brad Wills, and Bran Davies began filming in Hereford before moving to the studio craft barn in Cambridgeshire. 

The students took part in a master class designed to refine their skills led by the esteemed Ian Thackray. 

They also had the opportunity to visit Taylor’s Bell Foundry, where they gained firsthand experience of the intricate bell-making process. 

"Participating in the Master Crafters programme was a truly rewarding experience," said Bradley Wills. 

"It was an absolute dream to be a part of something that so honestly celebrated what we do as craftspeople. Sharing this journey with such talented individuals has fuelled my passion for my craft immensely." 

Bran Davies added: "The opportunity to be part of Master Crafters, especially alongside my fellow course members, made it a truly special time. Visiting Taylor’s Bell Foundry and meeting Ian Thackray gave us insight into the people working and promoting crafts in the modern day. 

“Meeting Bill Bailey was a memorable highlight.”

The Artist Blacksmithing degree at HCA is the only one of its kind in the UK, and one of only a handful of similar courses across the world. The course and its graduates are at the centre of an international community of passionate artists and makers working with forged metal in new and creative ways. 

"We hope the series inspires others to pursue their passions at the degree level and design the life they wish to lead,” said Done.