 
Private Classes in the Smithy
Interested in the art of blacksmithing? learn from award winning artist and blacksmith, and our very own Robert Noelke. Private classes available Robert Noelke has been an artist for over twenty years. He began taking painting classes early in life and at the age of twelve began working in steel. Through the years he has experimented in both two and three dimensional artwork. Robert has received numerous awards, grants and scholarships. After graduating in 2002 from the University of Florida with a bachelors degree in fine art, Noelke went on to work for two years at foundry casting bronze, aluminum, and resin. During this time, his interest in direct metal sculpting grew and he began taking blacksmithing classes. In 2004, Robert moved to Jacksonville to work with renowned sculptor and Jacksonville native, David Ponsler. Since then, he has had the opportunity to work on many exciting projects and has learned both traditional and contemporary metal working techniques. Robert has displayed his work in numerous galleries throughout the United States in both public and private venues. In 2009, Robert founded The Itty Bitty Smithy, a small scale blacksmith’s shop tucked in the back of Bead Here Now. Located in the heart of Jacksonville’s Five Points area, this bare bones creation station has grown into a classroom filled with tools and work stations offering classes in small sculpture and jewelry. Here students learn skills such as forging, cutting, riveting, shaping and annealing different metals. Eventually, Noelke dreams of developing a full scale art school that will offer classes in every medium. Until that time, the smithy will stick to its humble beginnings and continue to share the love of metalwork with the community. Available classes: knifemaking intro to blacksmithing- hooks, brackets and plant holders forged stainless steel and copper jewelry $25 and hour (materials charge may apply) Have something else in mind that you want to learn? just ask and see if Robert can accomodate | Itty Bitty Smithy
Offering classes in small scale forging, repousse’e, fine metalwork,glass blowing and coming soon, mosaic art.
The ancient traditional tool of the smith is a forge, smithy, allowing for efficient melting, soldering and annealing of metals. Today, this tool is still widely used by blacksmiths as it was traditionally. The word smith means to "smite", "to hit" or "to strike". The term, metal smith, often refers to artisans and crafts persons who practice their craft in many different metals, including gold, silver, copper, steel, etc. Things to Consider : Please keep in mind that the smithy is quite warm during the summer months. We do have 2 fans running and in addition, we do supply water to drink. If you have any special needs or requests, please let us know in advance. We are hoping to soon add air condition so please be patient until then. Most of the classes in the smithy, a torch will be used, and sometimes chemicals. Please wear closed toe shoes, light clothing, and pulled back hair. |
