Restoring the gates to Hampton Court Palace

As a maker, I like to create things that people want to keep and pass down; things that are unique and long-lasting, rather than throwaway. Since graduating from the Artist Blacksmithing degree I’ve been employed by George James and Sons, a blacksmithing company that has been open since 1841. Amongst other things, we do a lot of conservation work. Most recently we restored one of the gates at Hampton Court Palace. Seeing such a high quality piece of work in such bad condition, contributing its restoration, and then seeing it back in place looking like new was really satisfying. It’s a great way to develop and hone your skills.

It’s also fascinating to see how the old smiths used to do things. You learn a lot through remaking. It makes me feel like I’m part of a continuing conversation, and it’s very fulfilling. The creative side of me wants to get a bit more hands on with design, and I think someday I might want to start my own business. But this work really satisfies the Blacksmith in me. It’s also very much in keeping with my desire to make things that will last.

The Artist Blacksmithing programme set me up with really decent forging skills. But more than that it make me look at art and design differently, enabling me to analyse objects and analyse my own thoughts. It’s also provided community. There are a lot of people I still keep in contact with, and it’s great to be able to come back and see Ferrous and the degree show. The programme definitely set me up with connections.