CANIRON VIII

Short on funds - COME FOR A DAY

2011-07-28T08:26:00.000-04:00

- The CanIRON 8 organizing team did its best to offer a high quality conference, yet attempt to keep the registration cost as low as we could.

But we all realize that not everyone can manage to attend the full four days.

Remember that you can purchase a single day admission pass at the registration desk!
This is ideal for those who may not be able to get time off work, have family commitments on this holiday weekend, or are just tight on funds.

A one day pass costs $85 (+ HST)
OABA members get a $10 discount

Here's what is happening - day by day:
Click on this to get a full size copy you can print off

Its not too late to make plans for attending on FRIDAY - when programming runs from 9 am to 9:30 pm. This is by far our most information packed day of CanIRON 8

Hope to see you there!

Getting to CanIRON 8

2011-07-27T08:13:00.001-04:00

- We hope you are coming!

Fergus Ontario is just north of the city of Guelph, to the west of Toronto.

The main access highway is Number 6 - which runs straight through town. It also takes you within about four blocks of the Wellington County Sportsplex site.

The 'dirt simple' directions are :
* Get to Highway 6, take it into Fergus.
* Bleyside Ave crosses Highway 6 at on the south side of Fergus. Turn east on to Bleyside.
* The CanIRON 8 site is the Centre Welllington Community Sportsplex, a large complex on your right hand side, about 1 km along Bleyside.
* The main CanIRON 8 grounds are to the rear - follow the banners (and smell of coal smoke!).

If you need more detailed directions, check the information prepared for you on the CanIRON 8 Maps & Directions page.

Hope to see you soon!

Hands On WORKSHOPS

2011-07-26T07:25:00.004-04:00

- Remember that CanIRON 8 offers registered members not only the chance to SEE - but also to DO.

HANDS ON WORKSHOPS

This separate area (the red & white tent) has one 'masters' forge plus six additional forge work stations. These stations have a coal forge, anvil and basic set of hand tools.)

1) Three hour long sessions run Thursday afternoon, plus both morning & afternoon of Friday / Saturday, plus Sunday morning.
2) Those interested should already have basic level forge skills as a minimum. Although some basic level tools are available, those wishing to participate are strongly suggested to bring their own personal hand tools. Forge suitable clothing and safety glasses are a requirement.
3) Participants will be chosen by lottery before each session. Names will be drawn from those submitted, to occur after the evening meal, the night before a particular session. Those names will also be posted on the central notice board.
The exception will be Jake Powning's session on Thursday afternoon. Those interested should gather at the Workshop area for the class start at 1:30. The draw will take place at that time.

Of course others will be free to observe these sessions from outside the rope line.

Jake Powning

Thursday : 1:30 - 4:30

Basic Bladesmithing

6 students, intermediate level

Mike McCarthy

Friday : 9 - 12

Laminating for Tool Making

6 students, intermediate level (forge welding experience not required)

Kelly Smyth

Friday : 1:30 - 4:30

Forging Tongs

6 students, basic level

Brian Russell

Saturday : 9 - 12

Gate Elements 1

6 students, intermediate level (different class than Gate 2)

Paul Allen

Saturday : 1:30 - 4:30

Forging an Acanthus Leaf

6 students, basic level, a materials fee may apply

Brian Russell

Sunday : 9 - 12

Gate Elements 2 / Assemble

6 students, intermediate level (different class than Gate 1)

In the evenings (Thurs/Fri/Sat) The SIX work stations will be available for pick up work, inspiration, or just plain messing around. There will be teaching supervision provided in the evenings from 7 - 9 pm only.�

Come see - What is FREE !

2011-07-25T09:08:00.003-04:00

Click for the larger version!

the Gallery - See and Be Seen!

2011-07-24T22:39:00.002-04:00

The Gallery at CanIRON 8 is one of the best ways to show all your peers and everyone else who attends – INCLUDING the public – just what you’ve been up to and what you can do.
If a picture is worth a thousand words, the original object must be at least five times that!

Remember that with very few exceptions, ALL submissions will be displayed (single items, not multiple of the same item unless they are significantly different in technique or design.) We have a large space, so bring your work and let everyone see what you do!
Unsure? Email me, call me, ask me.elfworks@sympatico.ca

Thinking of bringing something but it isn’t complete yet?
Send me the information you have (name etc.) and number of pieces you think you might bring. Sending me the information beforehand does not mean that you are locked into bringing it.If you bring a different piece that is fine, just so that I get an idea of who is bringing work and I can start the tags!

If your piece fits the criteria for the “Joined by Joints” (work employing mechanical joins which are not welded brazed or soldered) additional category and you want it to be a part of this put it on the card and let me know!

You need to sign your works into the gallery at the beginning so that I know I have the right creator with the right piece and out of the gallery at the end so that I know that the right person is walking away with that piece. If someone else is bringing your work, send me an email or call me and let me know who to expect as the authorized person for the work you are submitting. I will make the process as quick and simple as possible. The in will be made simpler by you having and or/sending the filled out submission card beforehand, and I’ll make the out as simple and quick as possible. Remember that early drop-off could get you media exposure as the media will be being given a walk through after our media kickoff. (This means Thursday by about 11:30am or noon.)

The signing out is important to try to be sure that the right person walks away with your piece. If you’ve sold it during its display and someone else will be picking it up, or you can’t get there to do it and are sending a friend you need to inform the gallery as we will do our best not to release the work to an unauthorized person. As you sign out your work be sure to check for messages – the public and other members will be able to leave you information, questions, requests at the gallery. All messages will be in sealed envelopes for you to pick up. All works must be picked up from the Gallery by 5pm on Sunday, July 31.

Most importantly – BRING YOUR WORK.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who have already sent me information about the works they intend to bring, to encourage everyone to bring work and send me information (or questions or concerns), and to thank everyone for their help and support in this huge undertaking.

I hope you all have a great time at the conference and I look forward to seeing you and your work!

For more details, see the Gallery segment of the CanIRON 8 web site.

Kelly Probyn-Smith
Gallery Co-Ordinator

Last Minute DEMONSTRATIONS

2011-07-24T08:11:00.003-04:00

- In case you missed the final published schedule (July 12) there were some final additions to fill the last gaps - in what was already a pretty packed demonstration schedule:

DAVID ROBERTSON - Saturday, 9 to 12 AM - 'Beyond the Basics'

David operates Hammer & Tongs, and is widely know via his membership list at artistblacksmith.com. This forge work experience goes back to the early 1980's. He is one of the best known teachers of introductory and intermediate blacksmithing in Ontario. David's demonstration session will be ideal for those who are looking to expand 'beyond the basics', illustrating more complex shaping techniques for those who have gotten serious about their blacksmithing hobby and want to progress to the next level.

MICHAEL MCCARTHY - Thursday, 8 to 9:30 PM - 'A Sculpted Head'

Mike is one of our featured demonstrators. He has offered to present an additional short session at CanIRON 8. He will be demonstrating how three dimensional punching can be used to create a specific decorative terminal, a sculpted face / head. He says the form 'looks like an old man's face to start, then you fold it over and it looks like a human head from one angle, and almost like a horses head from another.' Of certain to be of interest to those who like to work with punch work techniques.

DAVE KRITZ - Thursday, 8 to 9:30 PM - 'Copper Leaves'

Dave is a local Ontario smith. He often demonstrates to the general public, but this will be his first major to fellow blacksmiths. Dave has developed some cold working techniques using copper tubing and sheet. He will be illustrating these methods - which can make nice additions to your smaller forged projects.

ROBERT WAGNER - Sunday, 9 - 12 AM - 'the Historic Forge'

Robert will be undertaking a display and demonstration of his War of 1812 styled portable charcoal forge. This is part of our free public outreach programming. Come take a look and where blacksmithing in Ontario started - and how far we have come.

Only FIVE more days!

A look at the GROUNDS

2011-07-23T10:31:00.004-04:00

So this is a rough to scale layout of the Sportsplex grounds - and how CanIRON 8 will be set up.

On this diagram, NORTH is the BOTTOM. The access into the complex is from the bottom of this drawing off Belyside.

Our registration desk is in the center of the Sportsplex building. There is ample parking out front, so park and come in side to sort your membership.
From there, those camping can drive back behind the building via the access roads shown on the map to either the tree covered (for tents) or open area (for RV's or tents). There are plenty of available spaces, the allocation is 'first come - first pick'.
Those staying off site, or just have day admissions (or even just watching the free public aspects) should park to the REAR of the main building.

Camping & Alternative Food

2011-07-22T08:16:00.002-04:00

Alternative Food ?

Check Local Information - the CanIRON 8 site is mere blocks away from:

• Downtown Fergus - with pubs and a variety of sit down restaurants.

• Fast Food Strip - along highway 6 (you will drive past on your way north to the CanIRON 8 site)

• OABA is providing complimentary water and coffee. A re-useable cup or water bottle is included with your membership package - or bring your own (please!).

• Cold drinks and muffins will be available at the OABA Hospitality area.

Note that there are no other food services offered directly
on site. (Other than the Meal Plan described above.)

Camping ?

• There are TWO areas available for camping right on the CanIRON
8 grounds:

- An open field area, adjacent to the CanIRON grounds, designed for RV's or trailers (with tent use as
well). These spaces are about 20 x 40 feet, and have possible electric
and cold water hook ups. There are no direct waste hook ups, but there
is a waste dump station on site.

'Sharing' limit is one vehicle and no more than three tents.

- A forested area, set back at the rear of the Sportsplex grounds, designed for tent use only. These spaces are about 20 x 30, with only limited electric and water points
(no direct hook ups).

'Sharing' limit is one vehicle and no more than two tents.

• There are flush toilets and showers available in a building set between these two camping areas.

There are also bathrooms and showers available inside the Sportsplex building (just beside the Gallery).

• Remember that there is a POOL inside the Sportsplex, open daily for
public swim - Details

The CanIRON 8 team has also prepared a list of area hotels, motels,
B & B, and camp grounds. DOWNLOAD as a PDF

VARIOUS ITEMS OF INTEREST

2011-07-19T06:35:00.001-04:00

A list of helpful notes compiled by our Registrar - Shirley Young

1. Lost Badges: Can be replaced at the registration desk with proper ID. Cost $5.00.

2. For assistance look for a volunteer wearing a maroon CanIron VIII T’shirt.

3. A limited supply of Conference T-shirts, caps and bucket hats can be purchased in the registration area.

4. There will be a Registration List posted in the registration area.

5. Tourist Information is included in registrant swag bags. Extra info is available at the tourism office in Fergus.

6. SAFETY FIRST – Be sure you are alert when near any of the demonstration tents. You MUST be wearing your SAFETY GLASSES when entering a demo tent otherwise you will be asked to leave. Safety glasses and earplugs are included in the registrant swag bags – please use them. Extras can be purchased at the registration area.

7. CELL PHONES - Please be considerate of others and have your cell phone off or in vibrate mode when in a seminar, demonstration area and/or workshop. As a courtesy to other attendees please move away from these areas to make and receive calls.

8. Iron-in-the-Hat draws will take place Friday and Saturday between 1:15-1:30 pm. Special Draw on Sunday at 1:15 pm.

9. Names will be drawn for the morning workshops the previous evening after dinner and for afternoon and evening workshops before lunch that day. The names will be announced as drawn and a list will be posted at the workshop tent.
Separate jars along with note pads for you to write your name for each workshop you are interested in will be available at the Hospitality Tent in the restricted area.

10. We are trying to be “green” so ask that you bring and use your own water bottles and travel mugs. Water coolers will be available in the tents to refill bottles and coffee will be available in the Hospitality Tent. There will be bottled water and pop in coolers in the Hospitality Tent at a cost of $1.00 each.

Remember a swim suit!

2011-07-13T11:03:00.004-04:00

Did you know...
that the Wellington County Sportsplex, site of CanIRON 8, has a POOL on site?

Yup!

Public access hours are 2 - 4 pm each day, with an additional time on Friday only from 6 - 7:30 pm.

This is a 25 m pool, with a separate kids area with water slide and such. There is also a separate warm temperature (90 F) leisure pool PLUS a whirlpool bath.

There are also evening sessions for swimming lanes (six total) if you want to get into the water at the end of the day.

All this for $4.25 per session! (less for kids and seniors).

Beat that!

Remember for those camping at CanIRON 8, there is one set of showers and flush toilets between the open and tree covered camping areas, plus another set of these inside off our Cafeteria / Gallery areas.

Latest SCHEDULE

2011-07-09T11:42:00.009-04:00

Conference Schedule
July 13 2011
Note some additions and changes (italics).

Feature Demonstration	Feature Lecture	Hands on Workshop	Public Outreach
Secondary Demonstration	Secondary Lecture / Panel	Other Activities	Logistics

	Time	Area	THURSDAY	FRIDAY	SATURDAY	SUNDAY	MONDAY
			July 28	July 29	July 30	July 31	August 1
MORNING	9 - 12		Registration Opens				Packing Down
		Gallery	Work Accepted	Members Only	Members Only	Members Only
		Public Demo	Iron Smelt	OABA Project	OABA Project	Historic Forge
		Demo A		Paul Allen Scrollwork for Acanthus Leaf	David Robertson Beyond Basics	Sandra Dunn Assembling - Chair
		Demo B		Jesus Hernandez Bloom to Bar	Kelly Smyth 'Chains Over Time'	Jake Powning Bronze Casting
		Hands On		Mike McCarthy Basic Toolmaking	Brian Russell Gate Elements	Brian Russell Assembling Gate
	(9 - 10:30)	Conference		Panel : Business of Blacksmithing	Workshop : Design Tricks Darrell Markewitz	Contributed video
	(10:30 - 12)	Conference		Smithing Science Kevin Peffers		Workshop : Working the Web David Robertson
LUNCH	(12 - 1:30 )			Meal Plan	Meal Plan	Meal Plan	Site Closes
	12:30 - 1:30	Gallery		Using the INTENET Neil Peterson	Mike McCarthy 19th C Blacksmiths	currently open
	12:45 - 1:30	Caffeteria		Sandra Dunn Design from History	Jesus Hernandez Japanese Bladesmithing	currently open
AFTERNOON	1:30 - 4:30		Opening Ceremonies			Official Closing
		Gallery	Work Accepted	Public Access 'Meet the Artist'	Public Access 'Meet the Artist'	Remove Work
		Public Demo	Iron Smelt	Major Project	Major Project
		Demo A	Paul Allen Forging a Flower	Brian Russell Gate Elements	Sandra Dunn Joinery Elements
		Demo B	Mark Puigmarti Sculpting Mass 1	Mark Puigmarti Sculpting Mass 2	Jake Powning Pattern Welding
		Hands On	Jake Powning Basic Bladesmithing	Kelly Smyth Making Tongs	Paul Allen Making Acanthus Leaf	Forging Competition (public)
	(1:30 - 3 )	Conference		Panel : 'How to CanIRON'	Panel : 'Women of Steel'
	(3 - 4:30 )	Conference	Panel : Canadian Artist Blacksmiths ??	Contributed Video	Contributed video
DINNER	( 5 - 6:30 )		Opening BBQ	Meal Plan	Thank Yous Meal Plan	Equipment Pack-Up
EVENING	7 - 8	Caffeteria	Meet Demonstrators	Brian Russell Portfolio	Auction (public) 6:30 - 9
	7 - 8	Gallery		(possibly open)
	8 - 9	Caffeteria	Paul Allen Portfolio	Jake Powning Design from the Ancients	Auction (continues)
	8 - 9	Gallery	Mark Puigmarti Portfolio	Kelly Smyth Nautical Blacksmithing
	(6:30 - 9:30)	Demo A	8 - 9:30 Mike McCarthy Sculpted Head	Mike McCarthy Pipe Tomahawk
	(6:30 - 9:30)	Demo B	8-9:30 Dave Kritz Copper Leaves	Jesus Hernandez Japanese Bladesmithing
	( 6 - 10)	Hands On	Open Forge	Open Forge	Open Forge

Details of Specific Sessions:

FEATURE DEMONSTRATIONS - There will be two main areas equipped for your featured demonstrators. Details below by individual demonstrator :

Paul Allen
Thursday	1:30 - 4:30	Demo A	'Forging a Flower'	A "three dimensional flower with fire welded stem and leaves made using pure forgework techniques”.
Friday	9 - 12	Demo A	'Scrolls for Acanthus Leaves'	Illustrating making the scrollwork for mounting an acanthus leaf. (This will be a preamble to his workshop session.)
Dark Ages Recreation Company
Thursday	9 - 5	Public demo	Iron Smelt	Ongoing all day Thursday as you arrive, DARC will demonstrate the easy to build 'Econo-Norse' iron smelting furnace. Expect the bloom to be extracted about 5 pm!
Sandra Dunn
Saturday	1:30 - 4:30	Demo A	'Joinery Elements'	Forging basic elements for a chair combining wood and steel.
Sunday	9 - 12	Demo A	'Assemble a Chair'	Completion of the chair project, assembling the individual elements.
Jesus Hernandez
Friday	9 - 12	Demo B	'Bloom to Blade'	Illustrating the process of converting a raw iron bloom into a working bar, preparatory to forging a blade. This all done utilizing tools and methods from the Japanese working traditions.
Friday	6:30 - 9:30	Demo B	'Japanese Bladesmithing'	Completing the bar to blade process, including showing the process of clay coating and quenching.
Mike McCarthy
Friday	6:30 - 9:30	Demo A	'Pipe Tomahawk'	Forging a late 1700's style pipe tomahawk.
Jake Powning
Saturday	1:30 - 4:30	Demo B	'Pattern Welding'	Illustrating some of the steps that go into the creation of a composite pattern welded sword billet.
Sunday	9 - 12	Demo B	'Bronze Casting'	Showing the process making bronze decorative fittings, from carving the wax to gravity poured casting & finishing.
Mark Puigmarti
Thursday	1:30 - 4:30	Demo B	'Sculpting Mass 1'	The demonstration will focus on hand forging larger stock using simple tools. While creating components for a free form sculptural piece he will explore the possibilities of design, and describe his approach to working.
Friday	1:30 - 4:30	Demo B	'Sculpting Mass 2'	Expanding and continuing working processes with larger stock and hand tools.
David Robertson
Saturday	9 - 12	Demo A	to be determined
Brian Russell
Friday	9 - 12	Demo A	'Gate Elements'	Brian will undertake the making of a simple gate for CanIRON VIII. This demonstration session will be followed up by two hands on worshops.
Kelly Smyth
Saturday	9 - 12	Demo B	'Chains over Time'	Showing her distinctive "Chains Over Time" motif. " This is an example of how using a traditional technique found in heavy ships' hardware that with a slight turn becomes delightful & useful where only the practical existed.

HANDS ON WORKSHOPS - This separate area has one 'masters' forge plus six additional forge work stations.

1)Three hour long sessions run Thursday afternoon, plus both morning & afternoon of Friday / Saturday, plus Sunday morning.
2) Those interested should already have basic level forge skills as a minimum. Although some basic level tools are available, those wishing to participate are strongly suggested to bring their own personal hand tools. Forge suitable clothing and safety glasses are a requirement.
3) Participants will be chosen by lottery before each session. Names will be drawn from those submitted, to occur after the evening meal, the night before a particular session. Those names will also be posted on the central notice board.

Of course others will be free to observe these sessions from outside the rope line.

Paul Allen	Saturday	1:30 - 4:30	Forging an Acanthus Leaf	6 students, basic level, a materials fee may apply
Mike McCarthy	Friday	9 - 12	Laminating for Tool Making	6 students, intermediate level (forge welding experience not required)
Brian Russell	Saturday	9 - 12	Gate Elements 1	6 students, intermediate level (different class than Gate 2)
	Sunday	9 - 12	Gate Elements 2 / Assemble	6 students, intermediate level (different class than Gate 1)
Kelly Smyth	Friday	1:30 - 4:30	Forging Tongs	6 students, basic level

In the evenings (Thurs/Fri/Sat) The SIX work stations will be available for pick up work, inspiration, or just plain messing around. There will be teaching supervision provided in the evenings from 7 - 9 pm only.

FEATURE LECTURES - Sessions by our feature demonstrators, offered in either the Caffeteria or the Gallery presentation spaces :

All	Thursday	Caffeteria	7 - 8	'Meet the Demonstrators' / Panel
Paul Allen	Thursday	Caffeteria	8 - 9	Portfolio
Sandra Dunn	Friday	Caffeteria	12:45 - 1:30	'Designing from History' / the chair project
Jesus Hernandez	Saturday	Caffeteria	12:45 - 1:30	'Japanese Bladesmithing'
Mike McCarthy	Saturday	Gallery	12:45 - 1:30	'19th Century Blacksmiths'
Jake Powning	Friday	Caffeteria	8 - 9	'Design from the Ancients'
Mark Puigmarti	Thursday	Gallery	8 - 9	Portfolio
Brian Russell	Friday	Caffeteria	7 - 8	Portfolio
Kelly Smyth	Friday	Gallery	8 - 9	Nautical Blacksmithing

SECONDARY PROGRAMING - Sessions of general interest, offered by both blacksmiths and those outside our regular community.

Note - at this time there are still some empty slots still to be filled!

'How to CanIRON'	Panel	Thursday	Conference	1:30 - 3	A bull session with current and past CanIRON organizers, discussing what works - and what doesn't.
'Canadian Artist Blacksmiths ?'	Panel	Thursday	Conference	3 - 4:30	An open session to discuss the possible development of a Canadian National organization.
'Business of Blacksmithing;	Panel	Friday	Conference	9 - 10:30	An open session to network and discuss working at Blacksmithing (as a living?). Come share tips and problems.
'Smithing Science'	Kevin Peffers	Friday	Conference	10:30 - 12	An overview of how basic physics and material sciences applies to the practical shaping of metals in the forge.
'Using the Internet'	Neil Peterson	Friday	Gallery	12:45 - 1:30	A beginer's introduction to the internet, e-mail and web sites, for fun and profit (?)
'Design Tricks'	Darrell Markewitz	Saturday	Conference	9 - 10:30	Can't draw? There are tricks you can use to develop your ideas and get them down on to paper. A practical working session.
"Women of Steel'	Panel	Saturday	Conference	1:30 - 3	Women often face different problems when it comes to male dominated blacksmithing - an open bull session hosted by Kelly Smyth.
"Working the Internet'	David Robertson	Sunday	Conference	10:30 - 12	How can you use the internet to promote your work as a blacksmith? A general discussion and working session to look at what works - and what doesn't.

FORGING COMPETITION - Love it or hate it, forging competitions done on the spot between teams of participants are always a big part of any gathering of Blacksmiths! Our hope is to allow the general public to be able to observe the goings on 'from behind the ropes'. This event will take place in the Hands On area on Sunday afternoon.

AUCTION - In keeping with our mission to inform and involve the public in selected aspects of CANIRON, we are hoping to open up participation in the fund raising auction to those with fatter wallets! The Auction is scheduled for Saturday evening.

GALLERY - The best way to inform the public to what we REALLY do is to allow them access to the Gallery. Bring your best and most inspiring work, make sure you include a stack of business cards. The layout of the site at the Fergus Sportsplex is ideal in terms of both layout and large size. Security and close supervision will be provided for all the work.

OPENING BBQ SOCIAL - All registared participants are invited to join in for an informal BBQ on a Bun dinner on Thursday - hosted by OABA. (Included with your paid registration.) Come meet the other conference members!

PUBLIC DEMONSTRATIONS - A special area is being set aside, accessable to the general public, to illustrate just what Blacksmithing is all about:
Thursday - A demonstration of bloomery furnace iron smelting by members of the Dark Ages Re-creation Company.
Friday & Saturday - Work on creation of a larger artwork project, undertaken by OABA members under the direction of Dave McCord.
Sunday - 'Hammer in' style work by members of OABA, bring your protable forges!

Some things are free, but much more with Membership!

2011-06-20T07:08:00.008-04:00

On 19/06/11 6:28 PM, John wrote:

Is it true that the iron smelt is on Thurs. only? That is my primary interest at the conference ...

The iron smelt by members of the Dark Ages Re-Creation Company will take place over the full day of Thursday 28, the opening day of CanIRON 8. The team will start the furnace build roughly 9 am, expects to be ready for the start of main sequence by noon, pulling the bloom roughly 4:30 - 5 pm.

This is a free, public outreach part of the conference. I'm expecting that I personally will be stuck running around organizing, but feature demonstrators Mike McCarthy and Jesus Hernandez are members of the "Early Iron Underground" and will be able (Mike especially) to lend a hand.

Of course you might expect that I should be plugging the full four day conference!

Jesus Hernandez, who works in the Japanese bladesmithing traditions, will be taking part of the DARC iron bloom and later demonstrating forging it down to a blade blank.

If you are interested in ancient historical methods, I think you will be interested in the (amazing) work of Jake Powning, who will be demonstrating Viking Age style pattern welding (twisted composite core), plus lecturing on his blend of Celtic and Norse designs.

There is a packed schedule of feature demonstrations, hands on workshops, lectures and panel sessions for paid registrations to CanIRON 8. One of the missions of the hosting organization, the Ontario Artist Blacksmith Association, is to inform and educate the general public about the 'art and mystery' of the blacksmith. For that reason we have included a full program of public outreach events.

Other aspects of CanIRON 8 which are being presented as FREE public access:

- Friday & Saturday (roughly 9-12 a + 1:30-4 p): Come see members of OABA, under David McCort, work on completing the Fergus Park Bench project.
- the Gallery is open daily from 1:30 - 4:30 p, including 'meet the artist' sessions
- our Auction takes place Saturday starting at 6:30 p, bid on original hand forged art pieces (plus smithing related items like tools and hands on courses)
- 'Hammer In' style demonstrations, Sunday 9 - 12 a, where members of OABA will present their skills using a range of forge equipments and working styles.
- Forging Competition, Sunday 1:30 - 4:30 p, always a lot of action and highjinks as teams of smiths (stuggle?) to make an object with limited materials and time.

For further information:

CanIRON 8 web site
Registration
Schedule

PUBLIC Auction - at CanIRON 8

2011-06-16T07:57:00.002-04:00

- (of special interest to the Blacksmithing community)

CanIRON 8 will be hosting an auction, open FREE to the general public, on Saturday July 30, 6:30 - 9 pm.
The action will take place at Wellington County Sportsplex, Fergus Ontario.

We are seeking objects of all kinds to be sold at this auction:
- Individual value should be + $50
- Ideally items should be blacksmithing related : Tools / Forged pieces / other objects of interest
- Items DONATED to OABA will be sold to offset CanIRON's cost
- Individuals may contribute PERSONAL items for sale, subject to a 30% commission
- All sales will be 'cash and carry'
- For conference members, your registration is also your auction number

REMEMBER - With the general public in attendance, we expect prices for original hand forged work to be HIGH!�

Volunteers Needed!

2011-06-13T08:44:00.001-04:00

Fellow Members,

As I write this there are just 46 days to the start of CanIron VIII.

For nearly two years a small group of people have put in countless volunteer hours on your behalf to organize this event. The hard work has been done for you. What we need now is for every member who is attending CanIron to help out and volunteer just a few hours of their time if they are able to. We need people to man the gates, help at the forging stations, sell tickets and especially for set up and take down. Every blacksmithing event relies on volunteers, some more than others. With this event we need more than the few who have already signed up. There are no special blacksmithing skills needed, just a willingness to help, so please get in touch with Dan Linkenheld dlinkenheld@ gmail.com or myself barbmick@xplornet.com.

Remember this is our event, no one can do it for us. It is us who will benefit from what we all put into it.

Thanks & be safe

Mick Smith

CanIRON Shirts - PRICE CHANGES

2011-05-16T10:14:00.003-04:00

Well, the truth is that the CanIRON 8 team *did* screw up a bit here.

We had set our original price for the CanIRON 8 T-shirts based on a general quote for the cost of shirts, printing, plus a (small!) mark up. In general discussion later, it was decided to stick to a higher quality MADE IN CANADA shirt. Our goof was that the better quality does cost more, and we forgot to adjust the price accordingly.

The published pre-order price is actually slightly LESS than our COST for these Canadian Made shirts!

Starting (today) May 15, the cost for the CanIRON 8 shirts will be:

Pre-order : Before June 15
Sizes - S / M / L / XL - @ $15 each
Sizes - 2XL / 3XL - @ $18 each

At CanIRON 8 : All Sizes - @ $20 each

Note:
1) Anyone who pre-ordered EARLY will keep the 'below cost' price they have already paid!
2) The difference in price for the oversizes reflects the cost price difference from the supplier.

BALL CAPS

To date there have only been TWO pre-orders for the offered CanIRON 8 ball caps. For that reason, the organizing team has decided to CANCEL the order of hats.
Those people who did pre-order will be given a full refund of course.

The lesson is : Order Early!
Remember that pre-registration for CanIRON 8, before May 31, will save you $25 of your admission price.

Early Bird Gallery Drop May Get You Media Coverage.

2011-05-14T00:22:00.001-04:00

For those who are planning to bring a piece and/or pieces to the Gallery to show, here is something you may want to think about. We are planning to have an Opening Ceremony Media Event on Thursday the 28^th around 1pm. We have the Mayor and the City Council of Fergus attending to accept the presentation of the Bench and do a media kickoff for the event to get their initial sound bites and a few shots for their viewers. Our publicity liason will be walking the media around after the opening ceremonies to show them some of the highlights and help get them shots of things their viewers might appreciate. One of those stops will be the GALLERY. Those who drop off their work early in the game have a chance that their pieces will get caught by the camera and get FREE MEDIA EXPOSURE. The gallery will start accepting works at 9 am and while there are no guarantees, those pieces that are dropped off early will certainly have had time to be processed and displayed to their best advantage in the hope that they WILL get media coverage and entice the buying public to come to see our Gallery.

Please make your best effort to get your pieces there early so that we can try to make you famous!

Sales at CanIRON 8 ?

2011-05-10T08:02:00.002-04:00

Thinking about taking the opportunity to sell something to those gathered for CanIRON 8 at Fergus? Here is the lowdown on what is available to you:

Tail Gate Area

There will be an area available to paid CanIRON 8 REGISTRANTS ONLY for more casual 'tail gate' styled sales.
- Only full paid registrants can set up in this area - there is NO ADDITIONAL COST.
- Only full paid registrants will have access to the area (as customers)
- The basic space is 10 x 15 feet (a 'truck')
- Vehicles can access the area ONLY :
Thursday - 11 to 12 AM / 5 - 6 PM
Friday & Saturday - 8 to 9 AM / 5 to 6 PM
Sunday - 8 to 9 AM / 1:30 - 5 PM
NOTE : There are no other 'in and out' privileges, 'once its parked, it stays the day'
- Area will only be fenced off during stated hours, no security is provided.
- Participants can set up their own overhead booth with tables if they wish, no electric will be provided.

The Gallery

Paid registrants to CanIRON 8 can offer the objects they display in the Gallery for sale. Remember the gallery is open to the general public (free admission, 1:30 to 4:30 PM each day). Gallery staff will NOT be handling direct sales, but will collect contact information from potential purchasers. You will have to make the arrangements with the customers to complete the sales. CanIRON 8 asks that a good will honourarium of 5% of the sale be donated to the CanIRON 9 (2013) fund.

The Auction

An auction, open to the general public, will be held on Saturday from 6:30 - 9 PM. Individuals may chose to sell items via this auction. Please, only objects or tools related to blacksmithing. There will be a 30% COMMISSION off the sales price withheld by CanIRON 8. (Remember that HST will apply to these sales.)

Vendor's Spaces

There are a number of commercial vendor's spaces available in a special (outdoor) area of the CanIRON 8 grounds. These spaces are OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC (free admission) for specified hours.
- The basic space is 10 x 10 feet @ $100 (+HST) / 10 x 20 @ $150 (+HST)
- You must supply your own booth and fixtures.
- Limited provision for electric power can be arranged.
- Open hours : Thursday - 1 to 6 PM
Friday & Saturday - 9 AM to 6 PM
Sunday - 9 AM to 1:30 PM
- Set up : Thursday - 9 AM to 12 noon
- Tear down : Sunday - 1:30 to 5 PM
- Vehicle access : 8 to 9 AM / 6 to 7 PM - ONLY (no 'in and out' privileges)
- Area will be fenced off outside public hours, BUT NO SECURITY IS PROVIDED.
- Renting a vendor's space DOES NOT include membership access to the CanIRON 8 grounds.
More information on applying as a CanIRON 8 Vendor is available as a PDF download

Just want to help CanIRON 8 out?

CanIRON 8 would be more than happy to accept donations of items that will support our fundraising efforts. Small items are ideal for the popular Iron in the Hat draws, which will be taking place daily over the event. Larger items donated will be sold at the public auction. In either case, full mention of your kind support will be made verbally and on our list of supporters.
More information on becoming a Sponsor of CanIRON 8 is available as a PDF download

Sorry that there has not been too much new content here of late. We have been too busy WORKING on CanIRON 8 - to have time to just write about working!

Five Reasons to Put Something in the Gallery at CanIRON

2011-03-14T09:10:00.004-04:00

Why should you bring your best pieces to the Gallery?

1) To show your fellow blacksmiths in the community what it is that you are up to.

No matter whether you have made your first hook or your 40th candleholder, the gallery is about showing what you are doing for all levels of smithing. Seeing something by an early smith reminds some who have been smithing longer how far they've come, and might even remind them of how exciting their first project was. Seeing the work of smiths who have been at it for a while inspires the up and coming smiths and gives them work to aspire to. Sharing ideas and the love of what we do is a large part of what the gallery is about.

2) To show the public what we do and how we do it.

Bring a work in progress, show your tooling for a specific piece - the art of blacksmithing is a bit of a mystery to the public. It has its own draws, but for someone trying to build a business, it also has its own drawbacks. The public is where people get their customers whether they are making coathooks, tables, gates or art pieces. They need to have some understanding of the amount of time, effort and work that goes into what we do. As smiths it is true that we need to sell the sizzle, but dazzle them too much with single heat tricks or quick demos and they forget that when they ask for that gate it is a lot of brainpower and manpower to make it happen. If they have a bit of an understanding of how we get from a to b it is easier for them to understand the benefits of them coming to us rather than the local garden centre for that gate.

3) To get a Gallery on your blacksmithing resume.

If you've ever toyed with trying to get a grant, get something in a gallery or even to start selling or demonstrating at a local craft show, having public showing or sales of your work is really important. Most gallery spaces won't touch an unknown artist. Remember, most galleries make their money off of sales of the artists they display. If the artist on offer can't bring in browsers or buyers, that gallery may not be around long.

4) It helps OABA in the long run.

The better the showing at the Gallery (as well as the better the attendance at the conference) the better OABA looks for any future projects we undertake. The gallery will be photographed and the number and variety of pieces will work for us in the future. The next time we want to host CanIRON, or the next time we want to bring in a demonstrator we will have the successes we create now to help us get funding for travel and other similar things. The Gallery is our largest public outreach feature at the conference and its success can make a big difference in the way that we are viewed from the outside.

5) Because it is fun and it gets feedback.

Many of us work alone most of the time. We get together from time to time to share ideas and get a new approach to problems. We can take pieces we are proud of (or photos of them) to meetings. However, there is nothing like seeing your work displayed and watching people you've never met before have a look at it for the first time. Whether it is other blacksmiths who have an understanding of or are learning the process or whether it is someone for who it is all a great mystery... it is a feeling that cannot be duplicated. (Except by doing it again!)

And remember - anyone who is attending the conference can bring any blacksmithing/metalsmithing related work to the gallery and it will be shown.

This post is actually a Kelly post, but in trying to figure out the mechanics of getting Kelly on the blog, it looks like Darrell.

Latest Schedule! Revisions and Additions

2011-02-21T10:46:00.002-05:00

The CanIRON team has decided to shift some of the programming FORWARD over to Thursday Afternoon (from the original Sunday afternoon slots).

The two featured demonstrators this effects are Paul Allen (Forging a Flower) and Mark Puigmarti (Sculpting Mass 1)

The current schedule also includes more panel sessions, workshops and lectures in our small conference room.

Go to the CanIRON 8 Schedule on the main web site to see!

(I was having big problems getting Blogger to post up an easy to read version of the current schedule. After an hour of screwing around, I just gave up!)

Gallery - Confusion on 'competition'??

2011-02-12T07:25:00.003-05:00

(this edited from a combination of recent letters by Darrell and Kelly)

There appears to be some misunderstanding currently about the Gallery at CanIRON 8. There were three slightly differing descriptions published, one in the Iron Trillium newsletter, one on the primary web site, and a third prepared for here on the blog. The core information had been delivered at several earlier OABA monthly meetings.
Kelly had thought that she had stated clearly that ALL works are welcome and encouraged in the Gallery. Almost all Gallery presentations have a "themed" portion to challenge its members/artists to create something within a specific set of parameters and have awarded nominal prizes for this. Perhaps the word 'competition' was the wrong word to use? It is just a system of recognition by your peers and those who are respected in the craft as a way of saying, "hey what a great job this guy did with these materials" or "what a unique way of interpreting that problem". If mere language is the problem, lets call it a 'Themed Challenge' instead.

No one is required to participate in the themed challenge, it is just an option, and if you dislike the theme then don't do a theme oriented piece... But please DO bring pieces to the gallery. Yet again - ALL WORKS WILL BE EXHIBITED - provided they fit into the space and can be moved without mechanical aid.

Once again ALL works will be displayed. Everything. Old, new, in process, experimental...

Once again, participation in the Gallery itself is NOT a competition. It is a Exhibition. It is there to display the work of the membership and all those who are visiting the conference in the hope that we can inspire both our own membership and the public, and boost our profile in the community at large.

But that does not stop us from recognizing exceptional works. This of itself is not meant to be intimidating, and hopefully good work is something we all aspire to.

There have been questions raised about the use of the term 'Traditional Joinery' to define the chosen Themed Challenge. We all are quite aware do that forge welding is a 'traditional' technique. It is simply excluded from this specific Themed Challenge for the purpose of an exercise. There needed to be a name. There needed to be definition. It is the role of the Gallery Co-Ordinator (called a curator in the art world) to set this theme.

It might also be good to remember that experience at the forge is not related to direct experience assembling effective Gallery exhibits. It was the stated intent of the CanIRON 8 organization team from day one to recruit experienced and capable individuals, then allow them to undertake their specific roles without attempting to micro-manage them.

Summery : The major points are this:

1) Anyone can bring ANY blacksmith related work they would like to display in the Gallery.
2) Its a large space, there is lots of space for lots of work.
3) You do have to be able to hand carry it through a standard door.

IN ADDITION

1) There will be some SPECIAL recognitions awarded - applied over EVERYTHING in the Gallery
2) The judges will include well known and experienced Ontario Blacksmiths, and hopefully some of the featured demonstrators. (not recruited yet)
3) There will be three awards : Best Use of Materials / Best in Show / Judges Choice
4) We hope that we can manage some actual prizes

IN EVEN MORE ADDITION

1) People can ALSO enter specific objects in a 'Theme' category - named 'Traditional Joinery'
2) This has been specifically described as 'joints which are not welded or braised'
3) Any object in this specific category must have been made AFTER the last CanIRON (August 2009)
4) What will be judged is the THEME - as DEFINED (which may just be part of a more complex object)

Blacksmithing in Ontario has grown considerably in the 30 plus years since OABA was first formed. One of biggest continuing problems is our work is not taken seriously by the artistic community at large. Those of us with (extensive) experience with modern artists and craftspeople are attempting to change this.

Kelly Probyn-Smith - Gallery Co-Ordinator / elfworks(at)sympatico.ca
Darrell Markewitz - CanIRON Team Leader / caniron(at)warehamforge.ca

If you have any questions regarding the Gallery at CanIRON 8, PLEASE contact us directly!

Revisions and Additions to SCHEDULE

2011-02-11T08:26:00.002-05:00

Yikes! I realize that although a LOT has been happening on the CanIRON 8 front (check the web site), I have not been keeping a flow of information over here on the blog!

The thing that will be most interesting to you readers will be the refinement and additions to the conference time table. Our featured demonstrators have given us their intended presentation topics. These have been worked into the framework as best possible.

There have also been a number of short panel or workshop sessions added. Many of these are topics around the edges of blacksmithing (like using the internet to promote your work).

Its looking like a PACKED schedule! Don't fret if you see way too much stuff than you can possibly all attend. My personal philosophy is that a great conference should have more interesting sessions than a single person can fit into their weekend.

Save $$ - Beat the HST!

2011-01-22T09:50:00.002-05:00

Register BEFORE January 31, 2011

After that date, CanIRON will be registering for the HST.
(Sorry about this, but the raw size of CanIRON requires us to at some point.)

If your registration for CanIRON is recieved before the government paperwork takes effect, you save yourself having to pay that additional 13%

Early Registrations get a cut rate of $225 + on the fee ($200 for current OABA members).
Thats a savings of $25 off the standard registration fee (before June 1), $50 less than 'at the door' (after June 1).

DOWNLOAD the REGISTRATION FORM - as a PDF file

The CanIron VIII Gallery - Theme & Things to Think About

2011-01-22T09:47:00.002-05:00

For CanIron VIII the Gallery will be open to all who wish to participate. We are hoping that everyone will bring a piece of work, large or small to display to show everyone who you are and what you do.

The theme for the Gallery at this event is going to be “traditional joinery” and I’d like to state that this means joins which are not welded.
Now, hold on, before you get upset …

Yes, absolutely welding (especially forge welding) is a traditional form of joining two pieces together. However, I’ve decided that for the THEMED COMPETITION ONLY works with welded/brazed joins will not be eligible.

I want to make it very clear that ALL works (provided they will fit through a standard doorway and don’t require more than a couple of people to move them) will be shown. All works in the gallery with the exceptions of those created by the chosen judging panel will be eligible for certain prizes. The themed competition will be open only to new works (created since CanIron VII) that use other forms of traditional joinery – mortise and tenon, riveting etc.

What made me choose this theme? Well, I’d been thinking about it for a couple of months, trying to decide: what hadn’t seen in a while, what would get people thinking, what would get them excited, what would get them creating? Then I came across an article in an old copy of Hammer’s Blow from 2003 called Tenons and Tradition by Preston Farabow. He had taken a class on traditional joinery with Clay Spencer and while he found it frustrating at first that he couldn’t even tack weld pieces together he ended up really enjoying the way it made him think about things. In short, it inspired me.

I find that we all get into a groove and have default ways of doing things. Everyone has to worry about timelines, many have to worry about profit margins and we all have to do problem solving at every turn. This made me think about how many people would have to think again – not just the creators of larger pieces, but the people who create smaller pieces.

Whether you are making a bench or a piece of jewellery falling back on welding, brazing or soldering is something that most everyone does. They are wonderful arts in themselves and they have been around a long time. They are generally sturdy and solid and make for a joint you don’t need to worry about once the skills are developed. Once you take it away though, you are presented with an interesting group of problems. It is like taking glue out of the equation for other crafts…if you can’t do that, how would you assemble that piece?

I knew that it might create a bit of uproar from some folks, but that’s exactly what I meant it to do. I look forward to all the pieces that were made to spit in my eye!

Kelly Probyn-Smith
Gallery Co-Ordinator for CanIRON 8

Schedule - Revised, Detailed, Additions!

2010-11-28T11:32:00.005-05:00

Posted - 11/27/10 :

Additions of specific demonstrators and topics / Conference Room programing

Information in italics has not been confirmed

Information in (brackets) should be considered tentative

Feature Demonstration	Feature Lecture	Hands on Workshop	Public Outreach
Secondary Demonstration	Secondary Lecture / Panel		Other Activities

	Time	Area	THURSDAY	FRIDAY	SATURDAY	SUNDAY	MONDAY
			July 28	July 29	July 30	July 31	August 1
MORNING	9 - 12		Site Opens				Packing Down
		Gallery	Work Accepted	Members Only	Members Only	Members Only
		Public Demo	Iron Smelt	Major Project	Major Project	OABA Members
		Demo A		Paul Allan Forging a Flower	Paul Allan Scrollwork for Acanthus Leaf	Jake Powning Bronze Casting
		Demo B		Jesus Hernandez Bloom to Bar	Kelly Smyth	Brian Russell Assembling Gate
		Hands On		Kelly Smyth	Brian Russell Gate Elements	Paul Allan Making Acanthus Leaf
		Conference A		Contributed Video	Contributed video	Contributed Video
	(9 - 10:30 )	Conference B		(members session)	(members session)	(members session)
	(10:30 12 )	Conference B		(members session)	(members session)	(members session)
LUNCH	(12 - 1:30 )		Registration Opens				Site Closes
	12:30 - 1:30	Gallery		Using the INTENET	Business of Blacksmithing	CanIRON 9
	12:45 - 1:30	Caffeteria		Sandra Dunn Design from History	Jesus Hernandez Japanese Bladesmithing	Mike McCarthy 19th C Blacksmiths
AFTERNOON	1:30 - 4:30						Cleanup
		Gallery	Work Accepted	Public Access 'Meet the Artist'	Public Access 'Meet the Artist'	Remove Work
		Public Demo	Iron Smelt	Major Project	Major Project
		Demo A	(currently open)	Brian Russell Gate Elements	Sandra Dunn Joinery Elements	Sandra Dunn Assembling Object
		Demo B	(currently open)	Mark Puigmarti Sculpting Mass 1	Jake Powning Pattern Welding	Mark Puigmarti Sculpting Mass 2
		Hands On	(currently open)	currently open	Mike McCarthy Basic Toolmaking	Forging Competition (public)
		Conference A		Contributed Video	Contributed video	Contributed Video
	(1:30 - 3 )	Conference B	Panel: 'How to CanIRON'	Workshop: Working the Web	currently open	currently open
	(3 - 4:30 )	Conference B	(possibly open)	Panel: 'Women of Steel'	currently open	currently open
DINNER	( 5 - 6:30 )		Opening BBQ		Thank Yous	Official Closing
EVENING	7 - 8	Caffeteria	Meet Demonstrators	Brian Russell Portfolio	Auction (public) 6:30 - 9
	7 - 8	Gallery		(possibly open)
	8 - 9	Caffeteria	Paul Allan Portfolio	Jake Powning Design from Ancients	Auction (public) 6:30 - 9
	8 - 9	Gallery	Mark Puigmarti Portfolio	Kelly Smyth
	(6:30 - 9:30)	Demo A	(possibly open)	Jesus Hernandez Japanese Bladesmithing
	(6:30 - 9:30)	Demo B	(possibly open)	Mike McCarthy Pipe Tomahawk
	( 6 - 10)	Hands On	Open Forge	Open Forge	Open Forge

The Organizing Team is intending on setting up the CANIRON site to provide for the following (additions in bold) :

DEMONSTRATION AREAS - There will be two main areas equipped for your featured demonstrators. You can see that this means two choices for any given session - with sessions planned for both morning and afternoons on Friday / Saturday / Sunday.

HANDS ON AREA - There will be a third work area, equipped with between 6 - 8 forge work stations:
1) The featured demonstrators will conduct a specific hands on workshop session. Sessions Thursday afternoon, plus both morning & afternoon of Friday / Saturday, plus Sunday morning. Individuals wanting to participate will need to sign up in advance, and available slots will be limited. Of course others will be free to observe 'outside the ropes' those sessions.
3) In the evenings (Thurs/Fri/Sat) The SIX work stations will be available for pick up work, inspiration, or just plain messing around. There will be teaching supervision provided in the evenings from 7 - 9 pm only.

LUNCH TIME LECTURES - In the later half of the lunch period, speakers drawn from a wider pool will be presenting shorter sessions on an expanded set of topics inside the gallery space. We expect to be able to provide 35 - 50 spaces of seating there. This in addition to presentations in the main dinning hall by our featured demonstrators. So come feed your mind as well as your body. (Friday / Saturday / Sunday)

EVENING PRESENTATIONS - We have broken the evenings down for two individual sessions, to take place in the main dining hall and also in the smaller space inside the gallery. Each session is for an hour, and is certain to include formal presentations by your featured demonstrators.

CONFERENCE ROOM SESSIONS - There will be two smaller rooms, equipped with 'board room' style tables. One room will be set up to show video presentations of interest to all. The second room will schedule specialized discussions. Current plans are to create a series of these panel and group discussion sessions, running 90 minutes each, afternoons. Have a topic / group you'd like to gather, even if its just for a place to 'Chew the Fat'? The rooms will also be available on a 'sign up' basis, for members to book for morning sessions.

FORGING COMPETITION - Love it or hate it, forging competitions done on the spot between teams of participants are always a big part of any gathering of Blacksmiths! Our hope is to allow the general public to be able to observe the goings on 'from behind the ropes'. This event will take place in the Hands On area on Sunday afternoon.

AUCTION - In keeping with our mission to inform and involve the public in selected aspects of CANIRON, we are hoping to open up participation in the fund raising auction to those with fatter wallets! The Auction is scheduled for Saturday early evening.

GALLERY - The best way to inform the public to what we REALLY do is to allow them access to the Gallery. Bring your best and most inspiring work, make sure you include a stack of business cards. The layout of the site at the Fergus Sportsplex is ideal in terms of both layout and large size. Security and close supervision will be provided for all the work.

OPENING BBQ SOCIAL - All registared participants are invited to join in for an informal BBQ on a Bun dinner on Thursday - hosted by OABA. (Included with your paid registration.) Come meet the other conference members!

PUBLIC DEMONSTRATIONS - A special area is being set aside, accessable to the general public, to illustrate just what Blacksmithing is all about:
Thursday - A demonstration of bloomery furnace iron smelting by members of the Dark Ages Re-creation Company.
Friday & Saturday - Work on creation of a larger artwork project, undertaken by OABA members under the direction of Dave McCord. Sunday - 'Hammer in' style work by members of OABA�

Registration Details!

2010-11-08T08:40:00.002-05:00

Latest Addition November 1, 2010
The Admission and related fees have been established for CanIRON.
Major changes indicated in colour.

Admission Fees

Type	Dates	General Admission	OABA Members
Early Bird	before 1/31/11	$225	$200
Pre-Register	before 5/31/11	$250	$225
REGISTER	after 6/1/11	$275	$250
Single Day	at event	$85	$75
Student	any point	1/2 price	1/2 price
Spouse	any point	$50	$50
Under 16		Free	Free

OABA Members in good standing receive a discount ($25) to account for their support.
Qualified Students must be currently enrolled full time at secondary or post secondary level.
Any Spouse is that of a fully registered person, and is limited to observation only.
Children are those less than 16 years of age, and will not be allowed any direct hands on participation (for safety reasons).
There is no fee to attend certain public demonstrations, Gallery Exhibit, Vendor & Tailgate sales area, Camping grounds.

Meals & Camping

Type	Details	Cost
Welcome BBQ	Thursday Diner	Included in Admission
Meal Plan	Lunch - Friday / Saturday / Sunday Diner - Friday / Saturday	$100
Closing Diner	Saturday ONLY *	$20
Camping	all sites have electric and water
	Tree covered (single vehicle + tent)	$25 per night
	Open Field (single vehicle / RV + 3 tent max.)	$25 per night
Parking		Free

Pre-Registration is required for inclusion in the meal plan. Must be recieved by July 11, 2011
* The Saturday diner is INCLUDED in the full meal package, this offer required for those using a 'one day' pass.
There is no waste dump station on site for those with RV's.

CanIRON 'Swag'

Type	Details	Cost
CanIRON 8 'T' Shirt	In BLACK - sizes S to 3X
	PRE-ORDER : until June 15th	$13
	at the conference	$15
CanIRON 8 Hat	Either BALL CAP or BUCKET style
	PRE-ORDER : until June 15th	$13
	at the conference	$15

Payment

All fees in CANADIAN funds.
Remember that 13% HST is required in addition.
For all pre-registrations, include a Cheque or Money Order (Canadian funds ONLY) made payable to : Ontario Artist Blacksmith Association
CANCELLATION FEES - prior to June 15, 2011 = $20 / after = $35 / NO REFUNDS AFTER JULY 15, 2011.

Pre-registrations with fees are mailed to:

Ontario Artist Blacksmith Association, c/o Shirley Young
285 Brand Rd 22 / RR 2
Ancaster, ON
L9G 3L1

Download a printable registration form : As PDF
Email : Registration at CanIRON ?

These fees may be subject to change should changing events dictate

Revised TIMETABLE

2010-11-04T08:30:00.001-04:00

This is the revised schedule for CANIRON 8:
For more details see the web site.

	Time	Area	THURSDAY	FRIDAY	SATURDAY	SUNDAY	MONDAY
			July 27	July 28	July 29	July 30	August 1
MORNING	9 - 12		Site Opens				Packing Down
		Public Demo	Iron Smelt	Major Project	Major Project	OABA Members
		Demo A		Feature Demonstration	Feature Demonstration	Feature Demonstration
		Demo B		Feature Demonstration	Feature Demonstration	Feature Demonstration
		Hands On		Guided Workshop	Guided Workshop	Guided Workshop
LUNCH	(12 - 1:30 )		Registration Opens				Site Closes
	12:30 - 1:30	Gallery		Mealtime Presentation	Mealtime Presentation	Mealtime Presentation
	12:45 - 1:30	Caffeteria		Mealtime Presentation	Mealtime Presentation	Mealtime Presentation
AFTERNOON	1:30 - 4:30						(Cleanup)
		Public Demo	Iron Smelt	Major Project	Major Project
		Demo A		Feature Demonstration	Feature Demonstration	Feature Demonstration
		Demo B		Feature Demonstration	Feature Demonstration	Feature Demonstration
		Hands On	Guided Workshop	Guided Workshop	Guided Workshop	Forging Competition (public)
DINNER	( 5 - 6:30 )		Opening BBQ		(Thank Yous)	Official Closing
EVENING	7 - 8	Caffeteria	Meet Demonstrators	Feature Presentation	Auction (public) 6:30 - 9
	8 - 9	Caffeteria	Feature Presentation	Feature Presentation	Auction (public) 6:30 - 9
	( 6 - 12)	Hands On	Open Forge	Open Forge	Open Forge

The Organizing Team is intending on setting up the CANIRON site to provide for the following:

DEMONSTRATION AREAS - There will be two
main areas equipped for your featured demonstrators. You can
see that this means two choices for any given session - with sessions
planned for both morning and afternoons on Friday / Saturday / Sunday.

HANDS ON AREA - There will be a third work area, equipped with between
6 - 8 forge work stations:
1) The featured demonstrators will conduct a specific hands on workshop
session. Sessions Thursday
afternoon, plus both morning & afternoon of Friday / Saturday,
plus Sunday morning. Individuals wanting to participate will need
to sign up in advance, and available slots will be limited. Of course
others will be free to observe those sessions.
2) In the evenings (Thurs/Fri/Sat)
The SIX work stations will be available for pick up work, inspiration,
or just plain messing around. There will be teaching supervision provided
in the evenings from 7 - 9 pm only.

LUNCH TIME LECTURES - In the later half of the lunch period, speakers
drawn from a wider pool will be presenting shorter sessions on an
expanded set of topics inside the gallery space. We expect to be able
to provide 35 - 50 spaces of seating there. This in addition to presentations
in the main dinning hall by our featured demonstrators. So come feed
your mind as well as your body. (Friday / Saturday / Sunday)

EVENING PRESENTATIONS - We have broken the evenings down for two individual
sessions, to take place in the main dining hall and also in the smaller
space inside the gallery. Each session is for an hour, and is certain
to include formal presentations by your featured demonstrators.

FORGING COMPETITION - Love it or hate it, forging competitions done
on the spot between teams of participants are always a big part of
any gathering of Blacksmiths! Our hope is to allow the general public
to be able to observe the goings on 'from behind the ropes'. This
event will take place in the Hands On area on Sunday afternoon.

AUCTION - In keeping with our mission to inform and involve the public
in selected aspects of CANIRON, we are hoping to open up participation
in the fund raising auction to those with fatter wallets! The Auction
is scheduled for Saturday early evening.

GALLERY - The best way to inform the public to what we REALLY do is
to allow them access to the Gallery. Bring your best and most inspiring
work, make sure you include a stack of business cards. The layout
of the site at the Fergus Sportsplex is ideal in terms of both layout
and large size. Security and close supervision will be provided for
all the work.

OPENING BBQ SOCIAL - All registared participants are
invited to join in for an informal BBQ on a Bun dinner on Thursday
- hosted by OABA. (Included with your paid registration.) Come meet
the other conference members!

PUBLIC DEMONSTRATIONS - A special area is being set
aside, accessible to the general public, to illustrate just what Blacksmithing
is all about:
1) Thursday - A demonstration of bloomery furnace iron smelting by members of the Dark Ages Re-creation Company.
2) Friday & Saturday - Work on creation of a larger artwork project, undertaken by OABA members under the direction of Dave McCord.
3) Sunday - 'Hammer in' style work by members of OABA

2010-06-28T06:51:00.001-04:00

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)

Table Lamp

" 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 ��

Demonstrator Profile - Sandra Dunn

2010-05-14T08:50:00.004-04:00

Sandra Dunn

Kitchener, Ontario
www.twosmiths.ca

" Blacksmith Sandra Dunn studied Fine Arts at the University of Waterloo and began blacksmithing in 1996. Incorporating traditional blacksmithing techniques such as forge welding, riveting and mortise and tenon joinery, her work reflects a deep interest in the gestures recorded by material that has been worked by hand."

Full time blacksmith since the mid 1990's, Sandra operates Two Smiths, a business that designs and builds architectural features in a variety of metals and styles. From restoration work to contemporary sculpture,projects often involve collaboration with architects, artists and other manufactures and include a stainless steel bicycle powered wind instrument for Open Ears Festival, bronze clad Art Deco entrance doors for the Registry Theatre, a curved copper wall in a Manhatten loft and a Baroque iron railing in Bornholme, ON.
Sandra has been a featured demonstrator at earlier CanIRON's : Ness Creek, Saskatchewan (2009) and Hamilton, Ontario (2005)

Interior Staircase railing

Detail of Forged Railing

Gate Latch

Sandra's web site includes a small portfolio and information about courses in metalsmithing.

Information Card!

2010-04-20T10:28:00.004-04:00

This is the front side of the information card that is being produced by us by Barbara Pearn of ColourPix

This is only a low resolution proof image, but it will give you some idea of what the finished product will look like. The CanIRON 8 team will have cards on hand starting at the May 8 OABA meeting, with the intent of being able to distribute a good number at the upcoming ABANA conference later in that month.

A bit of trivia:

The image of the forge weld was shot by Neil Peterson. Neil is the head of the DARC Iron Smelting demonstration team, a special event on Friday of the conference. The smith involved is Darrell Markewitz (one of the fools who kicked off this whole thing!) What is being welded is actually an iron bloom, made in an earlier experimental smelt, using Viking Age methods.

Work Team Leaders

2010-04-17T07:50:00.004-04:00

Its a dirty job, but SOMEONE has to do it...

One of the initial things talked about for CanIRON was work load up to, and at, the event. There was an attempt to break down the work into a small number of major areas. In some cases these 'team leaders' will need to do considerable work before the event. For others there will be considerably more labour required over the week of the event itself. In most cases each will need to recruit sub team leaders and workers - closer to the event date.
This is the initial list we came up with - and the people who have said they would assume the tasks:

Site Manager - Wolfgang Bleckert
Demonstrator Co-Ordinator - Darrell Markewitz
Volunteers Co-Ordinator - Dan Linkenheld
Registration & Financial - Shirley Young / Karin Bleckert
Gallery - Kelly Probyn-Smith
Trouble Shooter - Mick Smith

Promotion - SLOT OPEN
Grants & Sponsors - SLOT OPEN
Equipment - SLOT OPEN

Site Manager will include all the logistics of supporting the event. Garbage, security, set up & tear down, all the fun stuff. This works closely with Volunteers, which is where the labour is coming from. (Wolfgang got 'volunteered' for this by Karin by the way.)

Demonstrator Co-Ordinator is also known as 'head animal wrangler'. This will involve all the aspects of getting the demonstrators fed, housed, equipped as required. (Darrell took this primarily because he knows the larger number of the demonstrators personally)

Volunteers Co-Ordinator will get those work shift lists made and filled out. At the event will be responsible for getting bodies to the work stations as scheduled. Expect a certain level of confusion over the conference! (why its separated from Site Manager).

Registration was the task Shirley volunteered for. She has a clear idea how she wants to structure this. Karin, as current OABA treasurer, will assist on the Financial end of this area.

Gallery Kelly is on this area, working up a draft proposal on her concepts. This may include a longer term juried exhibit, likely with a web component. There is likely to be direct involvement in the program design here.

People with skills, experience and TIME are sought for:

Promotions - will include media contacts, advertising, information to affiliated organizations. There is likely to be some integration required with Sponsors.

Grants & Sponsors - ideally this will be someone with past experience navigating the mine field of Government Grants. Most important may be contacting corporate level for donations of goods and services. Even small scale local business may be able to assist CanIRON - and every little bit helps out. (Free coffee from Tims?)

Equipment - is a large and keystone responsibility. It would include forges, tools, AV. In many cases this would have a construction phase well before the event. Key will be getting a requirements list, then canvasing the general membership for some idea what can be loaned.

If you are interested in any of these specific positions, or just helping out with CanIRON8 generally:
Please contact Darrell via e-mail (caniron@warehamforge.ca).

Kelly Smyth - Demonstrator Profile

2010-04-01T08:28:00.004-04:00

Kelly Smyth
ChaddsFord, Pennsylvania
web profile

With nearly all experience in blacksmith shops using traditional
tools and techniques (often without electricity), Kelly is convinced it is the easiest way to make accurate copies of hardware for either newly constructed historic
ships or buildings.
Smyth spent five years in a blacksmith’s costume at Colonial Williamsburg before connecting with shipbuilder Allen C. Rawl and his Kalmer Nyckel. She’s also participated in the Smithsonian Folklife Festival and consulted with the Smithsonian to review hardware recovered from Cleopatra’s Barge. Built in Salem, Mass., in 1816, it was owned by the king of Hawaii when it sank in 1824.
Past projects include all the hand forged hardware for the new version of Discovery (1607) at Jamestown Settlement in Virginia and the John Smith 400 Shallop, an eighteenth century topsail schooner, originally constructed in Chestertown on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Dry land work has included hardware for the new Print House (1672) at Historic St. Mary’s City on Maryland’s western shore, both colonial capitols in the seventeenth century as well as private commissions.

Forge welding heavy ship's fittings (Image by Chris Queeney)

18th Century Door Latch
Private Commission, Esssex County VA

Chain Plates for the Discovery, Jamestown Settlement

Kelly does not currently support a web site

Event Flier ? - Historic Strikers

2010-03-17T13:00:00.001-04:00

The CanIRON team is putting together a simple 4 x 9 inch 'rack card' styled handout to help remind people about CanIRON 8 and get them the basic facts about the event. Working with our graphic designer, Barbara Pearn of ColourPix, four (very fast - very rough!!) concepts are being considered. Note that the specific image shown here may not be the one chosen, its more just to express the idea.
Second thing is that the logo seen on these is NOT the final version which Barb is also designing for us!

Number 4 - the Stikers:
What this image does is echo the slogan 'Forging Friendships', as well as reflecting the historic nature of the blacksmith's occupation.

Event Flier ? - Demonstrators

2010-03-15T13:00:00.002-04:00

The CanIRON team is putting together a simple 4 x 9 inch 'rack card' styled handout to help remind people about CanIRON 8 and get them the basic facts about the event. Working with our graphic designer, Barbara Pearn of ColourPix, four (very fast - very rough!!) concepts are being considered. Note that the specific image shown here may not be the one chosen, its more just to express the idea.
Second thing is that the logo seen on these is NOT the final version which Barb is also designing for us!

This version : the DEMONSTRATORS
The work seen here is Jake Powning, Brian Russell & Paul Allen. The intent is to pick a number of dramatic images showing work from our demonstrators, which also will convey the range of work being presented at CanIRON 8

Event Flier ? - Work Closeup

2010-03-13T13:00:00.001-05:00

The CanIRON team is putting together a simple 4 x 9 inch 'rack card' styled handout to help remind people about CanIRON 8 and get them the basic facts about the event. Working with our graphic designer, Barbara Pearn of ColourPix, four (very fast - very rough!!) concepts are being considered. Note that the specific image shown here may not be the one chosen, its more just to express the idea.
Second thing is that the logo seen on these is NOT the final version which Barb is also designing for us!

Number 2 - a Dramatic Closeup of Work
For the rough, the work seen is some of Brian Russell's. The heavily forged and textured elements suggest the detail and complexity possible with hand work.

Event Flier ? - Forge Weld

2010-03-11T16:14:00.003-05:00

The CanIRON team is putting together a simple 4 x 9 inch 'rack card' styled handout to help remind people about CanIRON 8 and get them the basic facts about the event. Working with our graphic designer, Barbara Pearn of ColourPix, four (very fast - very rough!!) concepts are being considered. Note that the specific image shown here may not be the one chosen, its more just to express the idea.
Second thing is that the logo seen on these is NOT the final version which Barb is also designing for us!

This is the first one : Dramatic Forge Weld
Hey - you gotta love a forge weld! One thing for sure however, you all reading this are blacksmiths yourselves, so there can't be any phony / staged 'oil on the anvil' crap.

Brian Russell - Demonstrator Profile

2010-02-23T09:28:00.004-05:00

Brian Russell
Little Newsham, County Durham, England
www.littlenewshamforge.com

" Towards the end of my four years at art college, the thought entered my head that it might be fun to be a blacksmith. I really wanted to serve an apprenticeship with a blacksmith, but in early 1970`s England they were very thin on the ground. There was no BABA or ABANA, no internet, no way of contacting other like minded people. I was offered a forge in a lovely old farming village in the north east of England and opened up for business in 1976, armed with two books by Fritz Kuhn and copies of the Cosira books : "A Blacksmith Craft," and "Wrought Ironwork". Shortly afterwards, I had a couple of short visits from a Cosira instructor, Ron Brown, who arrived with a bag full of ram`s heads, snails and leaves of all descriptions. This opened my eyes to possibilities that I had previously not considered; decorative features did not have to be scrolls! The founding of The British artist Blacksmiths Association in 1978 had a major impact on the work that I was designing and making. I was able to meet and see the work of craftsmen from all over the UK who had been established for years, producing amazing shapes of all descriptions in forged metal. This was a big eye opener for me, I had to go out and find a power hammer, to enable me to work bigger sections, and quicker!
" I do prefer architectural scale work,with as many forged elements in it as possible, so it will be fun to make. It`s a good feeling to have a pile of forgings on the floor at the end of the day. I don`t buy components from catalogues, for me it would be wrong to include pieces designed and made by others in my work, no matter how good the quality or how cheap. Having said that,for some jobs we do have blanks either laser cut or gas profiled to be forged into finished shapes by us. I continuously try to come up with new ideas, it`s not always easy,as there is so many clever blacksmiths out there now, and I have designed so much myself over the years, that it is difficult to come up with new forms.
" I try to make the work that we do as varied as possible, although there is no getting away from natural forms, is there? We love rivetted gates, with mortice and tenon joints,whether large or small. Sometimes these have traditional forms but more often with a design that hopefully will stand out as being different. Forge welding is a process I really enjoy, and use as much as possible. I think that most people regard me as a craftsman that will only work traditionally, and while I do prefer to work in this way, I do take on sculptural projects that by the size and the nature of the design, make it necessary to use modern methods as well. "

Barley Hand Rails
These rather more contemporary features are to be found on a cottage that was formerly a malt house. They feature heads of Barley and germinating grains.

"We are lucky in having a good client , a property developer who keeps coming back for more work,and gives me a pretty free hand with the design.This is an old cottage he owns which used to be a malthouse, so I tried to incorporate this aspect of it`s history. All the elements are forged but the assembly is a fabrication job.If I remember correctly,the grains are swaged from 70mm round, the tools made from a pattern turned on our old lathe.We make a lot of these tools, you can reproduce almost any shape of a circular section."

Table Candle Holders
A pair of candleholders showing how plant forms can be used with good effect in forged Metalwork.
"...a rare commission for us these days. Although we make quite a lot of candleholders for churches, these were for a private house. It makes a welcome change to do small scale work now and again, I sometimes think we don`t do enough hand forging..."

Brancepeth Screen
A forged steel screen, backed by toughened glass, in the ancient church of St. Brandon near Durham.

" This piece is in a church dating from the 11th century. It is a screen glazed with toughened glass to provide a quiet room in the church.It was far too big to fit through the church door,so a window had to be taken out ,and the 800 kg screen passed through on edge ( with 75 mm clearance).It was a delicate operation. "

Also on Brian's web site: An extensive portfolio of his past work, primarily architectural pieces. On the front page is a slide show feature that shows concept drawings which fade into an image of the competed works. On the 'Image Gallery' are many of his (high quality!) design drawings.

TEAM LEADERS for CanIRON 8

2010-02-20T11:32:00.002-05:00

As you are sure to guess, mounting an event like CanIRON 8 is a huge task. From some initial meetings about a year back, Brad Allen and Darrell Markewitz took on the early concept work for the event. Starting in the fall, Mick Smith joined, assisting on the selection of a final site and the recruiting of the featured demonstrators.

Starting with a meeting in December, there are now a number of people working as the core organizing team. to keep things working quickly, this group will be kept small, at least for the first stages of the process. A smaller group, conferring mainly via e-mail, is able to make decisions more quickly.
This is the list of the core team leaders - the people who have said they would assume these tasks:

Site Manager - Wolfgang Bleckert (bleckertk AT xplornet.com)
Demonstrator Co-Ordinator - Darrell Markewitz (caniron AT warehamforge.ca)
Volunteers Co-Ordinator - Dan Linkenheld (dlink AT bmts.com )
Registration - Shirley Young (shirley.y AT sympatico.ca)
Gallery - Kelly Probyn-Smith (elfworks AT sympatico.ca )
Equipment - Jean Heroux (Heroux-j AT rmc.ca)
Trouble Shooter - Mick Smith (barbmick AT xplornet.com)

Promotions - VOLUNTEER REQUIRED
Funraising - VOLUNTEER REQUIRED

Site Manager : will include all the logistics of supporting the event. Garbage, security, set up & tear down, all the fun stuff. This works closely with Volunteers, which is where the labour is coming from.

Demonstrator Co-Ordinator : (also known as Head Animal Wrangler). This will involve all the aspects of getting the demonstrators to CanIRON, then fed, housed, equipped as required. (Darrell took this primarily because he knows the larger number of the demonstrators personally)

Volunteers Co-Ordinator : will get those work shift lists made and filled out. At the event will be responsible for getting bodies to the work stations as scheduled. Expect a lot of last minute organization! (why this is separated from Site Manager).

Registration : was the task Shirley volunteered for (and is well suited!). She has a clear idea how she wants to structure this. Karin Bleckert, as current OABA treasurer, will assist on this area.

Gallery : Kelly is bringing her experience from working as part of the Toronto arts community to this area. Along with the traditional work by all, this may include a longer term juried exhibit, likely with a web component. There is likely to be direct involvement in the program design here.

Equipment : would include all forges, tools and required AV. It is expected to include organizing a construction phase well before the event. Key will be getting and idea what can be drawn from the membership.

Promotions : will include setting advertizing rates, recruiting for both paid program ads and possibly working as a vendor co-ordinator at the the event.

Fundraising : is a major task. This would include research and applying for possible grants, hunting for corporate donations. Also checking into smaller donations of materials and services from local businesses. This individual would need to work closely with the Promotions.

- The core organizing team is still looking for interested individuals who could help out with those last two areas, ideally people with past experience.

- Remember that as we get closer to the event, each of the core team areas will require first sub team leaders. There will be lots of work required from the membership in general on conference weekend. If everyone pitches in for a couple of hours, the whole event should come off smoothly!

- If you want to contact any of the team leaders directly - just cut out the AT and replace it with the @ symbol for the correct e-mail address. (This done here to avoid spam!)

FEES for CANIRON 8

2010-02-14T12:52:00.007-05:00

As of February 15, 2010, the following fees have been proposed by the CanIRON 8 Team:

Type	Dates	General Admission	OABA Members
Early Bird	before 1/1/11	$225	$200
Pre-Register	before 5/31/11	$250	$225
REGISTER	after 6/1/11	$275	$250
Single Day	at event	$85	$75
Student	any point	1/2 price	1/2 price
Spouse	any point	$50	$50
Under 16		Free	Free

All fees in CANADIAN funds.
Remember that after 7/1/10 the new HST is likely to be applied in addition.

OABA Members in good standing receive a discount to account for their support.

Qualified Students must be currently enrolled full time at secondary or post secondary level.

Any Spouse is that of a fully registered person, and is limited to observation only.

Children are those less than 16 years of age, and will not be allowed any direct hands on participation (for safety reasons).

These fees may be subject to change should changing events dictate.

Addition - Feb 18

The Fergus Sportplex, site of CanIRON 8, will provide CAMPING ON THE GROUNDS.
These sites are set up for RV / trailers, with electric and water hookups. Sharing a site and pitching a couple of tents will make your lodging costs pretty inexpensive!
There will be cafeteria services will be available on site for lunches and diners. Local pubs or fast food are available within a 15 minute walk /short car hop to the grounds.

the Dark Ages Re-creation Company - Demonstrator Profile

2010-02-05T11:21:00.005-05:00

the Dark Ages Re-creation Company
Central Ontario

www.darkcompany.ca

" The Dark Ages Re-creation Company is composed of people interested in using living history to research aspects of life in Northern Europe during the Viking Age. This is accomplished through workshops and experimental archaeology where the focus is on developing traditional skills as we create accurate replicas of period artefacts and processes. ... The Company further strives to provide a resource of skilled and experienced historic interpreters and physical demonstrators to museums, schools, and educational programs."

"DARC's Experimental Iron smelting is based on archaeological evidence, and are targeted to recreate the techniques the Viking Era Norse used to smelt iron. ... Our goal is to get a method that first reliably produces iron, and second uses equipment that would have been available historically, and third that matches the archaeological record that we have with regards to blooms produced, smelter and surrounding area layout, and materials."
The link between iron smelting and the Viking Age lies in the fact that the first documented iron production in North America was by the Norse at L'Anse aux Meadows Newfoundland (Vinland) circa 1000 AD. Team members from DARC have demonstrated both historic and practical modern methods for smelting iron before the blacksmithing community : at CanIRON 5 (2005, Annapolis Royal Nova Scotia) and at Quad State (2008, Troy Ohio)

(above June 2005 - An early experiment with all Viking Age equipments
image by Neil Peterson )

May 2005 - Taping slag from a firebrick furnace.
image by Neil Peterson

At Quad State - View of a simple clay smelting furnace in operation.
image by Darrell Markewitz

November 2009 - starting to hammer work the hot bloom
image by Darrell Markewitz

DARC maintains considerable information on its ongoing research work on the web, including its experimental iron smelting.
Further information on DARK's work is also to be found on the web site of Darrell Markewitz, which includes YouTube clips as well.

January workings...

2010-01-27T06:33:00.002-05:00

The last couple of weeks have seen a large amount of deep background work for CanIRON 8:

1) At the January 16 OABA meeting, a set of core team leaders for work over the actual conference days was recruited:

Site Manager - Wolfgang Bleckert
Demonstrator Co-Ordinator - Darrell Markewitz
Volunteers Co-Ordinator - Dan Linkenheld
Registration - Shirley Young
Gallery - Kelly Probyn-Smith
Trouble Shooter - Mick Smith

These are hardly ALL the responsiblities, but they do cover many of the major areas. Expect that each will be recruiting sub teams closer to the conference dates.

2) A draft budget was prepared by Shirley Young. This gives us a working framework. The most important result is that the organizing team expects to have a final announcement on admissions costs for just after the next meeting on Feburary 13 (at Waldies in Milton).

3) Research is being done into the design and production of the program / catalogue. Right now the thought is that a graphic designer will be chosen to handle this work. Right now a quote guideline is being prepared and rates being sought.

4) Research on 'swag' items - and costs. Some general ideas have been collected about what might available for conference members. This includes items that might be for sale. A general tracking down of possible sources and collecting of general cost quotes is underway.

The organizing team continues to gather good ideas on activities for CanIRON. We need input from those intending to attend the conference! Drop us an e-mail with your thoughts.

Michael McCarthy - Demonstrator Profile

2010-01-23T10:00:00.004-05:00

Michael McCarthy

Cooperstown NY

http://web.archive.org/web/20060510041855/www.hammerinhand.com/maxpages/Home

" My mission, in simplest terms, is to "Preserve, study, advance and exchange the techniques of the pre-industrial metalworker, In order to help build independence and productivity in those who may benefit from it."

" My vision statement, in part an effort to clarify the above: "Foster and develop an environment of study and research. Present the craft to those with interest. Provide a clearinghouse of information as regards the craft. Help to provide a voice for traditional crafters. Seek out opportunities to teach others."

" I became intrigued with the work of Paul Spaulding and went looking for an apprenticeship with him. I thought I would stay in his shop for a year or so and "bone up" on my forging skills. Seems laughable to me now. Five years later (2005), I find myself running the shop (at the Farmer's Museum, Cooperstown NY).

" My dream had long been to create an axe. Now I have made axes, using old tire iron or other sources, and welding in steel bits. What I am talking about is creating an axe. Starting with nothing and ending up with an axe..."

Replicas of Colonial Period hammers (wrought iron with welded steel faces)

" Since I can remember, I have been fascinated by the idea of sole authorship, the making of artifacts that can be attributed to one person and one person alone, without the imprint of another living soul. This is what brought me to blacksmithing in the first place. Looking for ways and means to make my own tooling, my own hardware, etc... I stumbled onto a trade so grand, so varied, so difficult that even a flighty gen-X'er like myself couldn't get bored with it. "

The Campbell Pipe Tomahawk
A recreation of a revolutionary war era tomahawk

Found on the Campbell property after the Revolutionary war era raid on the town of Cherry Valley, the axe stayed within the Campbell family for years before being donated to the Museum. The axe must have been quite a treasure for its day. Made of wrought iron with a welded steel bit, it is decorated with a series of punched and incised dots that elevate it from the status of many others in its class. The handle itself is treated in similar fashion, with a panoply of animal fetishes and arrows of poured pewter; it boasts brass tacks at the interstices of its designs. This attention to detail was by no means uncommon, as these pieces tended to be made and given as commemorative items.

This axe is not a reproduction, but rather it was inspired by an 18thc. axe attributed to Richard Butler. It is Made of wrought iron, with a welded steel bit. The bowl is cast silver and the end cap and handle bands are fabricated silver. The inlay is silver and gold. The handle is Tiger Maple with inlaid silver bands.

Mike's original web site is now only available in archive, so the information there is dated (to 2005!) and does not detail his recent achievements. Mike was instrumental in the creation of the Early Iron series of smelting symposiums.

Also on Mike's (archived) web site: a full discussion on forging hammer heads and building a great bellows.

Mark Puigmarti - Demonstrator Profile

2010-01-17T08:41:00.002-05:00

This is the third of a series of profiles of the featured demonstrators for CanIRON 8. The text and images are being gathered from each individual's web site. Readers are encouraged to visit these, as in most cases there is not only a greater selection of each artist's work to see, there are often other goodies like techniques or video available.

Mark Puigmarti
Port Parry ON
www.sparkswillflyforge.ca

"Forging yellow hot steel is as much an art form in process as the resulting piece. I thrive on exploring both the physical techniques and unlimited design possibilities. Many times a vision of a finished piece is an opportunity for investigating or discovering a process through experimentation to achieve a design element. I am continually amazed by the mediums ability to be moulded hot relatively easily into endless shapes and textures from heavy jagged, to smooth gentle fluid lines that are equally enduring."

"I feel that it is so important to challenge myself to create designs that are not typical for ironwork because the resulting expression is individual and intriguing. My approach to this work is with a touch of naiveté and bags full of patience. This establishes a borderless environment for the creative process."

Also on Mark's web site :

A much larger portfolio of his past work, including detailed concept drawings which can be compared to finished work in the gallery section.

Unless otherwise indicated, Images and text are taken from the individual's web site, and are used here with permission. Full copyrights apply.

(Darrell)

Jake Powning - Demonstrator Profile

2010-01-07T07:47:00.003-05:00

This is the second of a series of profiles of the featured demonstrators for CanIRON 8. The text and images are being gathered from each individual's web site. Readers are encouraged to visit these, as in most cases there is not only a greater selection of each artist's work to see, there are often other goodies like techniques or video available.

Jake Powning
Markhamville, Kings County, New Brunswick
http://www.powning.com/jake/home/j_homepg.shtml

I make swords in the Celtic and Norse styles and it is my aspiration to keep searching and refining my pieces to capture the magic and grim beauty of those ancient swords. I strive to work towards the same standards of quality that historical smiths exhibited in there work and to make swords which are infused with my personality, and the energy that is given by a craftsman to an original piece, while remaining informed by a historical tradition. Working within the parameters of a time period and style enables me to explore the material in a way which would be more difficult if there where no boundaries to help focus the work.

believe in making historically informed, light weight blades, which stand on their own both as swords and as crafted objects, and which feel as good in the hand as they look on the mantle. Since childhood I have been obsessed with studying Celtic and Norse mythology and history from the time of Fionn MacCumhal and Sigurd Fafnirsbane to Robert the Bruce and Iron Skegg. In my work, I hope to emulate the mystery and power which flows through the colourful folklore surrounding the Celtic and Norse heroes and heroines. I view my swords as stories that are told in steel and wood, bronze and leather.

Vardhllokur - spirit song

This sword is a 3 bar composite pattern welded construction. the edge billet is 61 layers and the two center billets are 9 layers each, the steels used in it's construction are 1075 and 8670m. the grip is carved from ancient bog oak, the fittings are cast silicon bronze, and there are sterling silver and copper wires twisted together between the pommel lobes. The scabbard is curly yellow birch, carved with dragon motifs.

'Clevdrui' - Celtic anthropomorphic hilted short sword

The blade on this sword is forged of 558 layers of 1075/8670m figured steel. It has a strong distal taper with a concave crossection. It feels light and deadly in the hand. These small swords are extremely efficient in every sense. The blade is forged of high layer spirit pattern damascus wich shimmers like figured wood or flowing water when you move it in the light. The hilt and scabbard fittings are cast silicon bronze, and the scabbard is birdseye maple lined with close sheared sheep fleece with the lanolin left in to protect the blade.

'Spirit Horse' Dagger

This short sword/dagger was featured in the first international museum exhibition of international bladesmiths in Macao China. This was my first museum exhibition and it was a great honour. I was also awarded an emerging artist grant from the New Brunswick Arts Board in order to construct this pice for the exhibit. the materials are'flowing water damascus' of 1075/L6 silicon bronze, and curly maple.

Also on Jake's web site :
A series of photo essay tutorials that includes - Bronze Casting / Pattern welding / Carving.
A much larger portfolio of his past work, including detailed images of most of the blades. There are also some interview video and sound clips.

Unless otherwise indicated, Images and text are taken from the individual's web site, and are used here with permission. Full copyrights apply.

(Darrell)

Jesus Hernadez - Demonstrator Profile

2009-12-30T11:12:00.005-05:00

This is the first of a series of profiles of the featured demonstrators for CanIRON 8. The text and images are being gathered from each individual's web site. Readers are encouraged to visit these, as in most cases there is not only a greater selection of each artist's work to see, there are often other goodies like techniques or video available.

Jesus Hernandez

Huntsville, Alabama
www.jhbladesmith.com

" I am a bladesmith. For a long time I have been fascinated with the ability to create both useful and beautiful objects by hand. The craft of a blade represents an expression of that ability. From understanding how metal moves under the hammer to shaping a piece of raw wood into a handle, every aspect of this art is capable of bringing a sense of satisfaction to the maker and to the owner of such creations. "

" I started making blades because of my interest in Japanese swords. I have practised and taught different forms of kenjutsu over the years. I regularly refine my skills at tameshigiri ―cutting tatami or bamboo targets― and I am a modest collector of Japanese swords. I have been a student of nihonto for many years. "

" Driven by a thirst for knowledge, I took the challenge of learning how the Japanese swords were made and what made them so special. Hence, I started a long road into bladesmithing. "

Ayasugi dagger

" This dagger is part of the first international exhibition of contemporary bladesmiths held at the Macau Museum of Art.

" This is a special project made of 1050, 1095 and 15N20 steel. Folded to about 100 layers and then manipulated to generate a pattern that will imitate the AYASUGI hada of the GASSAN school of Japanese swordsmiths of which I have been particularly fond. Cable damascus guard and pommel and stabilized California buckeye burl handle. The blade is 9 1/2 inches and the overall length is 14 inches."

Bamboo tanto

" Aikuchi style tanto made of tamahagane steel. Nagasa 7.5 inches. Overall length 13.5 inches. The hada is simply beautiful resembling a raging fire with lighting strikes in the hamon. There is utsuri. The fittings are delicately brought to a great finish to compliment the blade. Multiple materials are used for the koshira: a carved copper habaki, buffalo horn for the koiguchi, fuchi and kashira. Mokume gane menuki. Horn pin and high quality same for the wrap. The kojiri is reinforced with cured bamboo. Lacquered saya with gold paint of bamboo design. The red kanji letters read: 'Shadow of the Wind.' "

Tiger Tanto

" This blade's steel was made in a tatara at the first hammer-in organized by Kerry and Matt Stagmer at their shop in Maryland. The following year a portion of the steel was consolidated, folded and turned into this tanto. The saya is made of curly maple and the spacers are snake wood. The habaki is copper. "

Iron Smelting - Japanese Tatara and Southern European Catalan Furnaces

Also On Jesus's web site :
A series of photo essay tutorials that includes - Habaki making / Forge welding / Heat treating forge.
A much larger portfolio of his past work, including detailed images of most of the blades.

Unless otherwise indicated, Images and text are taken from the individual's web site, and are used here with permission. Full copyrights apply.

(Darrell)

Gallery for CanIRON 8

2009-12-22T11:22:00.003-05:00

The CanIRON team is pleased to announce that Kelly Probyn-Smith has volunteered to handle the GALLERY aspects of the conference.

Although Kelly is a relatively new face to OABA, she brings a good depth of experience to the effort. Most specifically her ongoing series of gallery / sales exhibits 'Not Just a Trick Pony', and great ties to the arts and theatre crowds in Toronto.

Although its still early days for this aspect of CanIRON, some good ideas have been put forward:

1) Organizing the overall display more like a commercial gallery or artists exhibition, with stress on presentation of the included works.

2) More information for each piece, including some details on method and design inspiration.

3) Possible development of a pre-juried exhibit of higher quality works.

4) Still an area for 'works in progress' and work at the beginner, hobbyist, and journeyman levels.

5) Allowing for free public access to the Gallery collection over fixed (limited) hours.

6) Inclusion of networking opportunities such as 'meet the artist' and area for distributing cards and fliers.

7) Possible co-sponsorship of a longer duration exhibit at a local museum or gallery?

8) Development of a 'virtual gallery' web site, making a permanent record of the contributed works.

Expect more information on the Gallery as Kelly gets her plans drafted and in place!

Darrell

Help Us Spread the Word!

2009-12-11T15:16:00.003-05:00

Do you have a web site?
It would be a big help to get the word out if there were a number of links back to the CanIRON 8 web site.
(This also would raise the site on the Google listings too)

Centre Wellington Community Sportsplex

Fergus, Ontario

Thursday July 28 - Monday August 1, 2011

The Ontario Artist Blacksmith Association
is pleased to announce we will be hosting the next Canadian National Blacksmith's conference!

Find out how things are progressing by visiting the WEB
SITE or the CANIRON 8 BLOG

The actual html code snippet that makes what you see above has been formated into a text (for Word / PC) and placed in a small file on the OABA / CANIRON8 web site - this is the direct link

If you cut, save and paste that stuff in to your own web site - it should produce the same thing you see at the top of the page.

Thanks!

Facilities / Content / Pricing ?

2009-12-05T08:27:00.002-05:00

(A Personal Observation)

Right now, the CanIRON 8 core team (Brad Allen, Mick Smith, Shirley Young, Elaine MacKay, Darrell Markewitz) have gotten a pretty good start in framing up the event. A date and site have been chosen, a slate of demonstrators confirmed, a draft schedule and tentative grounds layout are in hand.

Last week's blog poll was directed to potential fees for the event. Although at this point the sample is admittedly small, the results were a bit surprising. A full 50% of those who responded felt that a fair cost for admission to CanIRON 8 would be $200. All but one of the other respondents listed $150 as a likely fee.

This puts the concepts of the organizing team right on track, as it is our hope to be able to fix admissions price for the event at something between $150 and $200. This also puts us pretty much in the same line as earlier CanIRON events.

One thing that will be of note to all those intending to come to CanIRON 8 : The main outdoor area booked for the conference is fully equipped with electrical and water hook ups for RV camping. Although it is a bare, flat grass field, it will be ideal for tents and trailers. The tentative fee for a camping site (paid through the Sportsplex itself) is $25 per night. I suspect that several tents could share a single site. This offers a low budget alternative to local hotels or B&B, plus will keep you right on the centre of activities.

The next task before us is to draft a budget framework for the entire event. The hope is that we can have at least a rough set of numbers available for our next full face to face in early January. Hopefully within a month we will be able to announce the participant's fees for CanIRON 8.

Another Demonstrator Added!

2009-11-29T08:57:00.003-05:00

We are happy to announce that we have added British artisan blacksmith Paul Allen to our initial roster of demonstrators for CanIRON 8.

CanIRON 8 Web Site...

2009-11-26T07:53:00.002-05:00

Or really only a framework for a web site!

http://www.ontarioblacksmiths.ca/CANIRON8

There is an existing www.caniron.ca
But if you check it, you will see its just acting as a re-direct to the last CanIRON, this last summer at Ness Creek. I have been trying to track down just who manages that domain, but without a lot of results (at least so far)

You might want to book mark the CanIRON at Ontario Blacksmiths link. I manage the OABA site, so certainly it will remain possible to keep the latest information (as it firms up) on to that address. Of course, expect weekly updates and tid-bits here on the CanIRON blog!

Potential Demonstrators

2009-11-23T14:39:00.011-05:00

These are some of the people who we have contacted - and who have expressed an initial interest in demonstrating at CanIron 8:

	Paul Allen Dorset, United Kingdom
	Sandra Dunn Kitchener, Ontario Joinery Techniques
	Jesus Hernandez Huntsville, Alabama Japanese Tradition Bladesmithing
	Mike McCarthy Copperstown, New York Colonial Pipe Tomahawk
	Jake Powning New Brunswick European Pattern Welding
	Mark Puigmarti Port Perry, Ontario Contemporary Work
	Brian Russell Winston, United Kingdom Architectural Designs
	Kelly Smyth ChaddsFord, Pennsylvania Marine Fittings

The intent of the organizing team is to gather together a group of EIGHT featured demonstrators for CanIRON 8. As well as the people seen above, there are a number of others still under consideration.
The focus for the conference is more towards hand techniques, suiting the practical needs of the attending blacksmiths. Our hope is to recruit demonstrators who have proven abilities not only in terms of technical skills and inspiring work, but also those with good communications / demonstration skills. We would like individual demonstrators to interact with the participants as much as possible, providing not only demonstration sessions, but also some to be involved some kind of a direct hands on workshops. There will be space and time for lecture styled presentations by the demonstrators as well, with aspects of design an important topic for the conference.

Modified 11/29/09 to add Paul Allen

Framework Timetable

2009-11-22T08:25:00.006-05:00

This is the tentative schedule for CANIRON 8:

	Time / Area	THURSDAY	FRIDAY	SATURDAY	SUNDAY	MONDAY
		July 28	July 29	July 30	July 31	August 1
	9 - 12	Site Opens				Packing Down
	Demo A		Feature Demonstration	Feature Demonstration	Feature Demonstration
	Demo B		Feature Demonstration	Feature Demonstration	Feature Demonstration
	Hands On		Guided Workshop	Guided Workshop	(open?)
LUNCH	(12 - 1:30)	Registration Opens
	12:30 - 1:30		Mealtime Presentation	Mealtime Presentation	Mealtime Presentation	Site Closes
	1:30 - 4:30	Gallery (public & ongoing)				(Cleanup)
	Demo A		Feature Demonstration	Feature Demonstration	Feature Demonstration
	Demo B		Feature Demonstration	Feature Demonstration	Feature Demonstration
	Hands On		Guided Workshop	Guided Workshop	Forging Competition (public)
DINER	(5 - 6:30)	Welcome BBQ			Auction (public)
	7 - 8
	Main Hall	Opening Ceremonies	Feature Presentation	Feature Presentation	Closing Ceremonies
	Gallery		Feature Presentation	Feature Presentation
	8 - 9
	Main Hall	Meet the Demonstrators (panel)	Feature Presentation	Feature Presentation	Closing Ceremonies
	Gallery		Feature Presentation	Feature Presentation	Gallery Closes
	(6 - 12)	Open Forge	Open Forge	Open Forge

(Sorry if this is a bit hard to read - Blogger does not import tables very easily!)

The Organizing Team is intending on setting up the CANIRON site to provide for the following:

DEMONSTRATION AREAS - There will be two main areas equipped for your featured demonstrators. You can see that this means two choices for any given session - with sessions planned for both morning and afternoons on Friday / Saturday / Sunday.

HANDS ON AREA - There will be a third work area, equipped with between 6 - 8 forge work stations.
1) In the mornings (Fri/Sat/Sun) these stations will be available for self directed work by any participants. Over the mornings, a volunteer with some teaching experience will be on hand to supervise and assist.
2) In the afternoons (Friday / Saturday only) one of the featured demonstrators will conduct a specific hands on workshop session. Individuals wanting to participate will need to sign up in advance, and available slots will be limited. Of course others will be free to observe those sessions.
3) In the evenings (Thurs/Fri/Sat) The work stations will be available for pick up work, inspiration, or just plain messing around. There will be no teaching supervision provided in the evenings.

LUNCH TIME LECTURES - In the later half of the lunch period, speakers drawn from a wider pool will be presenting shorter sessions on an expanded set of topics inside the gallery space. We expect to be able to provide 35 - 50 spaces of seating, so come feed your mind as well as your body. (Friday / Saturday / Sunday)

EVENING PRESENTATIONS - We have broken the evenings down for two individual sessions, to take place in the main dining hall and also in the smaller space inside the gallery. Each session is for an hour, and is certain to include formal presentations by your featured demonstrators.

FORGING COMPETITION - Love it or hate it, forging competitions done on the spot between teams of participants are always a big part of any gathering of Blacksmiths! Our hope is to allow the general public to be able to observe the goings on 'from behind the ropes'. This event will take place in the Hands On area on Sunday afternoon.

AUCTION - In keeping with our mission to inform and involve the public in selected aspects of CANIRON, we are hoping to open up participation in the fund raising auction to those with fatter wallets! The Auction is scheduled for Sunday late afternoon.

GALLERY - The best way to inform the public to what we REALLY do is to allow them access to the Gallery. Bring your best and most inspiring work, make sure you include a stack of business cards. The layout of the site at the Fergus Sportsplex is ideal in terms of both layout and large size. Security and close supervision will be provided for all the work.

Modified 11/24 :
Corrected calender dates (!)
Added second evening presentation space

Looking Good

2009-11-20T07:23:00.002-05:00

Well done, Darrell. This looks very good. The more information we have available, and the easier it is for folks to make suggestions, or ask questions, the better this conference will be. We are off to a great start.

Brad

Fergus - a View of the Area

2009-11-18T11:25:00.005-05:00

Center Wellington Community Sportsplex
Formerly Fergus Community Center
550 Belsyde Avenue E, Fergus, Ontario N1M 2P7

Note that this image has NORTH roughly at the bottom.

Google Maps

View Larger Map

Darrell

CANIRON VIII - in Ontario!

2009-11-16T17:54:00.002-05:00

Host - Ontario Artisan Blacksmith Association

Place - Fergus Fairgrounds, Fergus - Ontario, Canada

Dates - Thursday 28 July to Monday August 1 - 2011

Stay tuned as more details develop!