Currently on display in the Marly Berger Gallery at the Arts Center of Cannon County are the functional and artistic ironwork sculptures of local Artist Blacksmith Joe Brown. The center is at 1424 John Bragg Highway in neighboring Woodbury and is open from 10:00 each morning until 4:00 in the afternoon Monday through Saturday. Admission is free.

The technique of heating metal and forming it into works of art was the intriguing factor that led Joe to become an Artist Blacksmith. Inspired by the elements of nature as well as the lines nature creates, his work reflects this inspiration. The challenge of designing and creating a piece to meet a specific need motivates Joe in continuing this craft.

Joe states “To create ironwork that gives others enjoyment while serving a purpose is my most satisfying work. I use the traditional method of heating metal in a forge and forming the metal with hammer and anvil. This method has a long history of providing ironwork from its most simplistic form to the most ornate. As I continue in the tradition, I seek to establish my own unique designs that will be both visually pleasing and functional.”