I have arranged the blacksmith work demonstrations since
1992. I have forged in different places of Estonia and also in many places in
Sweden, Denmark and Germany.
Tools I need for my work are anvil, field-forge, toolmaker with vice, set of
smith tool and additional equipment connected with smithery. Its total weight
is about 500 kg. The rest of exhibit is formed by ironwork exhibition, which
includes ironwork analogues from the beginning of Iron Age and from Viking period
and more contemporary ironwork from my author works.
The first part is practical forging, where I introduce different
working skills in forging. I make different ironwork quickly and effectively.
It is important to pay attention to occupational safety:
- Before performing I check the tools carefully.
- I use hammers, which are softer than common to reduce the danger of hammer
spalls.
- I don't fire-welding iron in front of people not to injure bystanders
with volatile sparks.
- I watch people not to coming too close to me.
- In case of danger I stop working.
The second part is formed by communication with onlookers. I explain to the
people what and how I am making, answer the questions, make jokes etc. I can
communicate in English, German, and Russian and of course in Estonian. According
to my own experiences, I can guess the reactions of onlookers and I try to
act in accordance with situation. All age groups are interested in my blacksmith
demonstration, especially children.
During forging I wear suitable work wear. I always take care of my appearance.
Gaining experience and picking up new knowledge helps me to renew my performance.
I have forged in different towns in Estonia and since 1997 I have performed
in foreign countries:
- In 1997 I was to Sweden to Kalmar Medieval Fair and to Germany to
Windheim Countrywomen's fair
- In 1998 - Germany Warmsen fair and Kuppendorf Art and Handicraft fair
- In 1999 - Denmark Lejre Historical-Archaeological Experimental Centre.
- In 2000 - Germany Warmsen 50-th anniversary of Company Nobbe and Kuppendorf
Art and Handicraft fair.
- In 2001 - Germany Kuppendorf; Denmark Lejre History and Archaeology
Experimental Centre; Sweden Kalmar Medieval Fair.
- In 2002 I took part in Kronoberg Viking Camp in Sweden by Växjö;
Kalmar Medieval Fair and in Germany Kuppendorf Art and Handicraft fair.
