Matthew Blackwell always had a passion for drawing, art and making things with his hands, so when he was introduced to the world of the Blacksmith, he instantly fell in love with the craft.
When I realised that I can give so much life, movement and beauty to a piece of heavy metal, I knew then that was what I wanted to do...
After completing a 5 year apprenticeship with a local Blacksmith in Devon, and obtaining qualifications from Hereford and Warwickshire in forgework, he went on to work closely with other Blacksmiths across the country; Devon, London, Bath and Somerset, with each of them, Matthew learnt more and further improved his knowledge and skills.
I love to learn about blacksmithing, there are so many skills and techniques out there...knowledge passed down from generation to generation... You can spend a lifetime learning and still have more to learn!
Matthew returned to the South West and began setting up his own forge and workshop in East Devon. There he makes a whole array of artistic metalwork; gates, railings, interior and exterior items, sculptures and bespoke forged pieces.
Drawing upon the idyllic countryside and coasts, which Matthew is often inspired by, he creates art for your home and garden in his forge; Blackwell Blacksmiths.
I look towards nature for inspiration, so many graceful lines and shapes turning and twisting within everything; from the gnarly roots of trees, to the flowing lines of water...