The banks of the Maribyrnong River in Footscray will come alive with the heat of forges and the rhythmic clang of hammers as the highly anticipated Blacksmiths Festival returns on May 17-18.
Festival-goers will witness master blacksmiths shaping molten steel in real-time demonstrations, while browsing the artisan market for unique hand-forged treasures.
The ever-popular kidsmith zone invites children under 12 to create their own keepsakes, while the blacksmith games arena presents inventive, one-of-a-kind challenges and old world fun. The festival also offers a range of workshops, including sessions designed for total beginners, women, and neurodivergent individuals.
Festival co-ordinator, Lisa Fitzgerald said a major highlight of this year’s festival will be the collaborative forging masterclass which will create a sculpture in honour of the late Maribyrnong councillor Sarah Carter.
“Over five days, 14 blacksmiths will work together to forge a sculptural contemplative seat, guided by the expertise of Canadian blacksmith Sandra Dunn,” Ms Fitzgerald said
The festival aims to showcase traditional blacksmithing while celebrating the art, skill, and community involved in the craft.
Details: blacksmithsfestival.com
