Arts & Crafts
Michel Paradis - Forge

SITE #11
608 ch des Carrières, Stukely sud, Québec
phone : 450-775-9037
email : michel@par-art-dis.qc.ca

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I practise a craft, recognized since the beginnings of civilisation, that exhilarates me. Spiritually, I am following in the footsteps of those who have gone before. The exaltation comes with hammering the iron on an anvil block after heating it to glowing point in the coal-fired forge, just as blacksmiths have done for three thousand years. I am always and still in a living a dream in the past, the present, and the future.

I am nourished and inspired by looking at works that are well-known parts of our cultural heritage. Reference books and my reading help me to make a link between various cultures and different periods such as that of the Hittites who lived 1000 years B.C., the mediaeval period, or the 18th century.

Time for research is, I believe, essential, because it allows me to innovate. Research is a vital part of every step of the creative process, from the first stirrings of an idea to the final realization. Research is essential to my development so that I can keep moving forward. Integration, through the weaving together of many different materials and collaboration with other craftsmen and artists requires openness and constantly challenging oneself. It is my hope to contribute, in my own way, to the legacy of Quebec heritage, and thus to make my mark.