Mark Kelly’s experience with metalworking began with non-ferrous metals at the University of Wisconsin La Crosse, where he specialized in printmaking and metalsmithing. He began learning ferrous metalwork after graduation, and has since worked as a blacksmith at a series of historic sites. His career has focused on recreating historic designs of hand-forged tools, hardware, and cooking equipment for restoration, demonstration, reconstruction, and sale at museums.
Untitled – Mark Kelly
2022 | 29 x 16.5 x 24.5 inches | Steel, Wood, Foam, and Fabric
Recently, I’ve shifted focus to pushing my skill beyond my comfort zone of 18th century ironwork. One of the major aspects of this has been incorporating the use of power equipment in my process. Stepping outside of strictly period work has both challenged and expanded the potential of my designs, allowing me to work with larger scale material, use different joinery techniques, and incorporate other media to create contemporary objects.
Mark Kelly
