I am Betsy Cook and my interest in blacksmithing began about15 years ago when my ferrier retired from shoeing horses and began doing ornamental ironwork. I asked to watch. I think that introduction to iron, my love of history and my curiosity with science played a role in developing my interest in working with and forging iron. I was amazed to see this very strong iron become pliable with the addition of heat and actually look delicate in some pieces.
For several years, I took classes and workshops to learn the beginning skills of blacksmithing. I studied with various blacksmiths from around the United States using a coal fired forge, anvil and hammers to master the traditional techniques. Finally, I began developing my own style, which I see as a mix of contemporary and traditional. I use traditional techniques to hand forge the components of my art work but rather than traditional forge welding, I use more contemporary methods of welding.
Nature inspires most of my art pieces. While walking through the woods and hills of southeastern Ohio, I have discovered many of the ideas for my artwork. To add a unique dimension to my work, I incorporate glass, wood and other metals. Most of my pieces are functional as well as ornamental and can be used in the home and/or garden.
Since my retirement from teaching, I have been selling my handcrafted ironwork at juried fine art shows throughout Ohio. My work can be found at shops and galleries in Ohio as well as on the web at gardenforge.com.