work of phil abernethy
toronto canada
Welcome! I hope you enjoy the work that I do as much as I enjoy doing.
Click on the links below to browse.
And yes I would welcome your feedback !!
Like all I am continually astounded by the learning process, of craft and life - some work is a deliberate manipulation of the medium, but I'm often left wondering where the hell 'that' came from and what it says. I know that sounds kind of vague but I've come to the conclusion that just letting things come is where the best things come from, whether that be listening to the heart, or letting some work manifest itself. Trying to explain that further is beyond me, nor do I think it's my place to. Understanding that and seeing the work as a reflection of 'something other', perhaps in tandem with an exploration of nature, thought or the potential of the medium is about as deep as I can get. Sometimes I wonder if the cause of inspired work is ours to understand anyway. So they come and I don't question while being thankful for the reflection.
Blacksmithing came naturally as an extension of my first craft - Clockmaking. The whole environment at the forge along with the use of a focused mind and hand often bring on a meditative state where I feel connected to elemental powers. Unlike clockmaking the room for creative expression at the forge is free of the constriction of an essentially abstract concept. So to be at the forge and feel it's raw potential I often feel pushed by a secret wind with no charts (or chronometer!!)
In respect of the work from the studio I hope it reflects some of the freedom felt and adds some of that 'other' to our environments.
Phil Abernethy, Biographical.
Born in Cumbria, England in 1963 to a family of traditional clockmakers. Craft member of the British Horological Institute. Began forging seriously in 1994 focusing on sculptural and domestic works.
Notes
Some works are collaborations with Toronto Basketmaker and Fabric artist, Kim McBrien. The wildly differing mediums are forged with opposing 'fuels' - mine fire, hers water. We are always amazed at how the two mediums work together. Our collaborations have been a great source of joy, learning and focus of friendship.
Like my page?
Email me! [gridiron@netcom.ca]