CASA's Blacksmithing Course For Autistic Young People
Our inspiring eight week course concludes with an exhibition of work at Stroud's Museum In The Park
Thanks to a grant from The Ironmongers' Company , this autumn our CASA Community Autism Support and Advice team have been able to run a free, hands-on blacksmithing course for young autistic adults, led by tutor Arian Leljak at his teaching forge in Cranham.
The course consisted of eight two-hour sessions, where the students learned practical blacksmithing as well as boosting their artistic skills, self-esteem, and social confidence.
The course was linked to the Earth Fire Iron Exhibition at Stroud's Museum In The Park, which commemorated the life and work of Stroud's nationally-famous artist-blacksmith Alan Evans who died in 2023.
At the end of the course, a selection of the students' work was added to the Earth Fire Iron exhibition, alongside works by Alan Evans and the many other contemporary artist-blacksmiths whose work and careers had been influenced by him. Part of the aim of Earth Fire Iron was to extend Alan's legacy by creating more opportunities for young people to start learning the craft and begin what could possibly be a life-changing journey.
Nine students took part in the CASA blacksmithing course, and the only thing they didn't like about it was that it couldn't go on forever! Several of them are planning to carry on learning the craft.
Here are some of the students' comments:
"What did I enjoy most about being at the forge? Doing something physical and practical. And looking back at what I did – seeing my achievements!"
"I enjoyed making and being hands-on. Geeking out."
"I enjoyed working around people – body doubling and learning new skills under guidance, and having freedom to play around with ideas and techniques"
"I loved the whole thing – the whole experience."
"I loved the freedom to be creative – I feel calm here."
"It’s easier than it looks. I normally struggle with fine detail. I’ve had a lot of fun being creative and physical at the same time."
"Arian the tutor is super-supportive, he helps when needed but gently. This has been a dream of mine for 10 years. If you’ve ever thought of doing it, give it a go."
