Blacksmiths to create Áowers from metal

Blacksmiths will create a metal sculpture on site in a competition slated for July 28-29.

Blind Tiger Winery in Lake Country will host the first Sound of the Forge competition.

The theme for the contest is “flowers,” which is a general category providing limitless opportunity for creativity.

Competitors have the choice to work their steel in coal or gas forges, with an array of hand tools and anvils of varying sizes.

At the end of day two, the finished sculptures will be judged and awarded in both beginner and advanced categories, then sold in a public auction.

“There are not a lot of blacksmiths in the Okanagan compared to places in Europe. Those who do practice blacksmithing here are extremely talented, but most often practice their trade behind closed doors in private workshops and no one gets to see what it’s all about,” said organizer Kelly MacIntosh.

“Sound of the Forge gives everyone the chance to see blacksmithing up close — watch hammering skills, heating, welding and cutting processes, and forging hot metal over a 150-pound anvil.”

There will also be wine tastings, wood Àre pizza and live entertainment at Blind Tiger Vineyards all weekend.

For more information contact MacIntosh at 250-540-7344, email kellymac@shaw.ca.

Visit dancingscotforge.com for a sample of work, or blindtigervineyards.ca for a list of winery events.