The sounds of the past ring into the future at the Urban Forge, a Mountain View blacksmith shop where history is kept alive by artisan blacksmiths like Andy Baker and his dad, Corky.
"The root of American industry sprang forth at the unlikely congruence of fire, iron, a hammer and brute finesse," Corky Baker says. "Blacksmiths were the centers of innovation and progress in every small town."
The Bakers brought with them years of experience in construction, engineering and design when they took over Stone County Ironworks in 2009. In 2018, the Urban Forge brand of modern metalwork was launched.
"People see the incredible work, but they seldom get to see the artisans toil," Corky Baker says. "There is genius behind every piece, but it isn't the machinery ... it's the people. I want the world to see that we have kept the ancient blacksmith trade alive. No book can teach the essential knowledge required to do what we do. It's handed down through time as one artisan shares with another."
The public can peer into the Bakers' studio when Arkansas PBS premieres "Urban Forge: Ozark Artistry," livestreaming at myarkansaspbs.org/watch at 7 p.m. Nov. 30.
"We are so excited to partner with Urban Forge on this show," says Marge Betley, CEO of the Arkansas PBS Foundation. "Just as Arkansas PBS crafts homegrown productions that reflect the rich stories and voices of our state, the artisans of Urban Forge craft unique works of art that reflect the generations-old traditions of blacksmithing, but with a contemporary vibe.
"We can't wait for our viewers to experience the stories of these incredible artists," she adds. "And, for our donors, we've got some really cool thank-you gifts, direct from the forge."
Donations to Arkansas PBS will come, depending on level, with hand-forged items like a leaf keychain, wall hooks, a mug stand and mugs, hot dog cooker, fire poker and more. To become an Arkansas PBS member, call 800-662-2386.
-- Becca Martin-Brown
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FAQ
‘Urban Forge: Ozark Artistry’
WHEN — 7 p.m. Nov. 30
WHERE — Arkansas PBS at myarkansaspbs.org/w…
COST — The program is free; there will be opportunities to donate to Arkansas PBS
INFO — 800-662-2386