The Blacksmith Shop at the John C. Campbell Folk School

The Clay Spencer Blacksmith Shop

While taking a photography course at the John C. Campbell Folk School, I had full access to the blacksmith shop.  It was a real treat to be in a place with such a great variety of photography elements.  Light, color, movement, detail, composition, perspectives, subjects were all there, everywhere I turned.  I’ll start right out with a big thank you to everyone, instructors and students, for such great access and cooperation in letting me just wander in the studio during all hours of the day.  And these guys were at it from early in the morning till 9 o’clock at night, which added to the variety of interesting lighting conditions.  I especially appreciate instructor Mike LaMarre suggesting and providing the setup for me to get some really special images of the hammer strike. 

 An overview of the shop and work areas

The Blacksmith shop has two attached sections.  The oldest ‘Pittman’ section was converted from a milking barn, c1930.  Many materials, special machines and tools are in this area.  The forges and main working areas are now located in the Clay Spencer Blacksmith Shop.  This timber frame addition was added in 2009.  

Details and Close ups

Men at work

I’ll end with my three favorite shots of the

Hammer Strike

—  Thanks For The Look  —

Also check out the earlier blog – My week at the John C Campbell Folk School (link)