Ray Blacklee has spent most of his working life as a Craft, and later a Design Technology Teacher.  He has had 30 years of interest in all aspects of forgework and in semi retirement specialises in Artistic Blacksmithing, and sculpture, working to commission, joining with Artists for exhibitions,  running occasional courses and seeking to keep alive the working of yellow hot metal on the anvil.

Ray is a committed Christian and his great love of nature and God’s creation is seen in his more organic and free form forgework.

His workshop/studio is adjacent to his house on the North Lancashire/Cumbria border and his logo (a figure of eight knot), is often seen somewhere on his commissions.

As well as working and designing in metal he enjoys working in all materials and other aspects of design, including building his own house, landscaping, conservation and restoration.

One of his other great loves is traction engines and this year he will rally the one third full size engine he has been building from scratch for 8 years, weighing in at around ¾ of a tonne!

Ray has done commissions  for individuals, schools, churches, etc and is always willing to discuss new projects. He can be contacted on 01524 701761 or be seen at the Methodist Church, where his work will be on display.

For Health & Safety reasons, Ray’s workshop will not be open during the Art/Craft trail, but if anyone is especially interested and would like to visit (like stepping back in time!), he will be only to pleased to give people a tour in small numbers, provided prior arrangements are made, or please ring or see him at the Methodist Church where he will be serving refreshments!

METHODIST CHURCH COVE ROAD

The ideal place to see further exhibiters and stop off for refreshments. (Toilets, inc Disabled).

OPEN at the following times:  FRIDAY - 5 - 8 p.m.

                                                SATURDAY - 11 - 5 p.m.

                                                SUNDAY - 1 - 5 p.m.

 Click here to see Examples of his work