Paul Allen Dorset, England www.artinmetal.co.uk Growing up in rural Dorset, Paul Allen considered
training to become a silversmith in Birmingham. But the lure
of the countryside led him to take up a forgework apprenticeship
in blacksmithing at Cerne Abbas in Dorset – the start
of a fascinating career in metal.
Eager to share his knowledge and enthusiasm, Paul left Cerne
Abbas at the age of 26. He took on the challenge of using
his skills and talent to train young blacksmiths all over
England for the Council of Small Industries in Rural Areas.
His flair for design led to major projects being awarded to
the student apprentices. These included a seat for the Ironwork
Gallery in the V & A Museum and an ornate archway for
the Zachary Gardens in London, commissioned by the Goldsmiths
Company and incorporating the London Assay mark.
National UK Champion Blacksmith in 1994, Paul is a certificated
Licentiate teacher and Liveryman of the Worshipful Company
of Blacksmiths, as well as a Licentiate of the City &
Guilds Institute. He is still actively involved in teaching
as a part-time tutor at the National School of Blacksmithing
in Hereford and is well known all over the country.
At home in his studio at Motcombe Forge Paul specialises in
producing original designs for interiors. Working in iron
and other metals he uses only pure forgework techniques. The
materials are chosen to enable delicate designs to be worked
by hand; creating natural flow and balance within the practical
function. From sweeping sinuous lines and personification
of plant forms through to functional straight lines, his designs
are often inspired and influenced by natural shape and forms.
Commissions range from candlesticks to coffee tables and table
lamps, creating quality style essentials which never go out
of fashion. (taken from Paul's Web site) |
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" Circular base with central column that branches out to support
the decorative shade, which incorporates honeysuckle flowers and stained
glass. Size 55cm high x 37cm wide. Made from mild steel with a lacquered
finish.
...The shade is made using repoussé techniques to form the flower
features and hand chasing to add decoration. The central column and decorative
infills that hold the glass are hand forged. "
Bench - V & A Museum, Ironwork Gallery "History was made at the Victoria and Albert Museum in South Kensington
when visitors were invited to sit on one of the exhibits.
... The bench seat has a coat of arms combining the logos of the V &
A and The Ironmongers Company who provided the funding. Situated in the
Ironwork Gallery the bench commemorates the opening of the gallery’s
eastern wing in 1998. "
"Vortex in Fire" Candelabrum A pair of highly polished candelabrum with three outer and one central
candleholder with removable sconces. Hand made and formed in stainless
steel using lead block, stake work and repoussé techniques. Size
460mm high x 380mm wide.
Paul's
web site features a gallery
of past work and details on the historic Motcombe Forge ��
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