In person Mentorships
Mentorships are tuition-free learning opportunities. Selected applicants are awarded room and board at no cost and a stipend of $450 to help with travel and materials.
These learning-intensive, two-week residencies give small groups of emerging artists the opportunity to learn from master artisans and connect with their peers in the folk schools community-driven environment.
John C Campbell Folk School, Brasstown North Carolina
February 18 – March 2, 2024
The Folk School’s blacksmithing program has been a cornerstone of our campus for decades. Blacksmiths from across the world have covered our 270-acre property with sculpture, forged hardware, and most importantly, their knowledge. Fully immerse yourself in this Appalachian tradition for two weeks while receiving individual attention from skilled blacksmithing mentors Beth Holmberg & Tal Harris.
Mentees will focus on strengthening the solid fundamentals that will keep you forging better and longer and on cultivating good ergonomics that get you hitting harder with less effort and fewer injuries. We’ll cover the basics of design and drawing so you can develop your own ideas and communicate them more successfully. We’ll also work on forging to dimension with a focus on forge welding, traditional joinery, and making the tools related to your project needs. Learn the traditional skills you need for your modern work in this immersive program. Intermediate blacksmiths are welcome to apply.