Douglas Morlock has opened his forge and studio at 82 Main Street in Warkworth, close to the entrance to the Warkworth Millennium Lilac Trail.
Moving his business from Guelph, then Campbellford, before taking over this space in Warkworth, Morlock has revitalized the empty space that used to house Mike Johnston’s garage.
“Originally, I was going to be a goldsmith,” said Morlock. “I tried blacksmithing in 2003 and have loved it ever since, so working metal has become my life’s pursuit.”
A blacksmith is a metalsmith who creates objects primarily from wrought iron or steel, but sometimes from other metals, by forging the metal, using tools to hammer, bend, and cut.
“Glowing hot, steel is as malleable as clay, the possibilities are limited only by the mind and hand of the smith,” added Morlock. “It is a craft as old as civilization, one that after nearly two decades I am only just beginning to learn and I continue to refine my own skills and techniques.”
Blacksmiths produce everything from gates, grilles, railings, light fixtures, furniture, sculpture, tools, agricultural implements, decorative and religious items, cooking utensils, and weapons.
Morlock’s space includes a forge and a studio to display items that he has made. He also teaches others his craft.
If you are in Warkworth, look for the anvil sign, Douglas Morlock, Blacksmith. To check out his current classes and his portfolio of work, visit www.morlockblacksmith.com.
