Earth’s most common element by mass, iron has been employed since antiquity to create tools, weapons, and works of art. Join master blacksmith James Austin to explore iron’s historical importance and amazing metallurgical properties—as well as the air of mystery surrounding the blacksmithing trade.

James Austin left the graduate school of chemistry at UC Berkeley in 1982 to pursue his love of traditional handwork as a blacksmith in Bavaria. After a 6-year apprenticeship, Austin established his own studio in San Francisco. Now located in Oakland, he continues to focus on skilled blacksmithing and conveying its beauty and importance to following generations.