Transforming ideas into a tangible reality

The renaissance of artisan blacksmithing

Dujardyn Artconcept aims to keep traditional artisan blacksmithing alive. Our blacksmith’s shop is entered through a sturdy door that is fitted with the same door furniture as the doors of the Notre-Dame in Paris. We forged this ourselves as part of the restoration of the iconic French cathedral. The originals can be found in Paris, of course, but we decided to forge a copy for ourselves as a memento of our contribution to this prestigious project. Endangered heritage knowledge One of the main concerns of the Dujardyn brothers is that the blacksmith’s trade is in danger of becoming extinct. While Belgium was famed for its blacksmiths in the Middle Ages, the trade has almost completely disappeared today. “The craftsmith, the locksmith, the bladesmith, the farrier, the coppersmith, the toolmaker, the silversmith and goldsmith, the metalworker, the engraver ... their know-how constitutes a form of heritage, of knowledge, craftsmanship, values ​​and traditions, that is at risk of being lost.” Consider the need for certification in recognition of the training enjoyed by a smith. It takes approximately ten years to master all the techniques of traditional artisan ironwork. Unfortunately, Belgium has no certificate or diploma that recognises the specificity of this work or the many years of training that it represents. As a result, artisans such as smiths find it difficult to be commercially competitive. “There is no clear distinction between industrial welding and construction work, on the one hand, and traditional ornamental ironwork, on the other. They require a different approach and consequently there is also a difference in price. Traditional techniques are applied for the restoration of heritage-listed items and pieces of a historical value. Using electric welding for the reconnection of components in a restoration project would be a disaster.” Raising awareness Our country does not have a suitable training structure for apprentice blacksmiths. “There are no training courses that enable you to set up a business as a professional blacksmith after completing your training. Internships in forges are therefore indispensable for young people. In addition, we believe that architectural training courses should include visits to blacksmiths in their curriculum. As such, future architects can get learn more about the various techniques that blacksmiths use and gain an insight into them.”