Devoted to iron

The master blacksmith Vilnis Vincēvičs started to learn the craft as a teenager out of curiosity. He met old masters who had practiced blacksmithing since Tsarist Russia times, and became an apprentice. Since then, his whole life is devoted to iron.

When we met Vilnis, he was working on a crucifix for St John´s Church, while his apprentice was forging a nail. Restoration of historical artefacts and making decorative and practical household items go hand in hand.

Although the traditions and canons of folk blacksmithing are very strict and prescriptive, Vilnis is fascinated by iron´s plasticity, form and materiality. Transmitting the craft to the next generation of blacksmiths is his great concern, to which he dedicates his spare time and money.