Back Again

Hello friends
I'm back again after a long absence. It has been a long full year with many ups and downs which have kept me away from my computer.

The art show last September at the Mango Lounge was a great success. The space looked fantastic and the art was incredible. Many thanks to all those who made it possible, especially my fantastic team of Kelly Anne, Chandra-Li and Corey. And thanks to all those who volunteered their time and efforts...too many to name, but some of note being the Orangutan, James and David.

The Grave Goods show at the Woodstock Museum had so much fantastic work in it, many thanks to Darrell for the honour of my participation and for putting it all together and making it happen.

Since the Not Just A One Trick Pony show it has, admittedly been a bit of a quiet time on the public front for Elfworks. But it has been a busy time in the background. The smith-y is built, there is some new equipment, lots of new direction and knowledge to build on.

May saw another wonderful conference in Buffalo as the New York State Designer Blacksmiths hosted another Great Lakes International Ironfest. Some really fantastic presenters and lots of great people made it another fun and informative gathering....always worthwhile!

In June I was a proud participant in the Toronto Nautical Festival, as the blacksmith demonstrating down at Harbourfront. Rick and the gang put on a great festival full of everything from swashbuckling pirates juggling wicked looking blades to masterful artisans demonstrating their craft, like Adam Smith's incredible leatherwork and Len Heidebrecht demonstrating the craft of the cooper.

As the blacksmith I was especially pleased to meet some of the crew of the Empire Sandy and glad to make them some hooks to haul in their anchor chain with. The Empire Sandy is a gorgeous tallship with beautiful lines and a fantastic crew that sails out of the Toronto Harbour - for those of you who like the water and the fantastic vessels that glide through and over it you should keep your eyes open for next year's Nautical Festival - it promises to be even bigger and better than this year!

July is proving to be a full and busy month, and August promises to be the same. I look forward to keeping up with updates on our upcoming shows and ventures. This is going to be a big year for Elfworks, and I hope that it will be as big and as fantastic a year for all of you! Enjoy the summer!