The first public demo event at the new Selmer Ironworks shop. This is free public blacksmithing event for all ages and skill levels.
We are happy to host Drew Alexander of Alexander Brothers, LLC as the feature demonstrator. Artist bio below. See Drew Alexander (thedrewalexander.com)
Instead of an entry fee, donation of a handmade item is requested. These will be raffled during the event. If you’re just getting started or never made anything, come anyway and buy extra tickets. This Iron In The Hat raffle is not limited to forged ironwork, just items of interest to blacksmiths.
Pictures and details are being posted to the facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/881824213556222
Feel free to bring items for tailgating. This will be outside, with weather conditions permitting.
The food truck from Braglio Farms will be on site for lunch. They are bringing fresh BBQ from their local farm.
Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Appropriate shoes and safety glasses must be worn in the demonstration area.
Artist Bio:
Drawn to blacksmithing when seeing local blacksmith Bill Moss at a festival, Drew got his start apprenticing at the Frontier Culture Museum in Staunton, Virginia as a teen. While pursuing blacksmithing on evenings or weekends, Drew grew professionally in the fine home building and historical home reconstruction field with local expert Jay Hafner. Hafner taught Drew to always say yes to a project even if it was new or intimidating. This approach shaped Drew’s confidence and success in taking on challenging projects. For over twenty years Drew has honed his craft through self-education, learning and leading in his local blacksmithing guild community, books, and networking with other artisan blacksmiths online. Most recently he was mentored by the late craftsman Nol Putnam. Drew began the process of buying Putnam shop in 2022. Putman’s influence on Drew’s craft continues in the tools he uses and the wisdom Putnam passed on. Drew left his full-time work in sales in 2021 to pursue artisan blacksmithing full-time. He specializes in client led projects, and prefers large pieces that allow room for artistic creativity and customization. This Benjamin Disraeli quote has hung in Drew’s shop since 2010: “One secret to success in life is to be ready for your opportunity when it comes.” Drew shared: “Every time I have had an opportunity that was pivotal, I have jumped on it. Knowing it might not come around again.” Drew lives in Rockingham County with his wife and their four children.
Sponsored in part by Maryland State Arts Council and the Blacksmith Guild of Central MD