Julie Grose – Metal Design
Sculptural blacksmith, Julie Grose, is a designer maker who makes metal sculptures and functional items from her forge in Wallingford, Oxfordshire, UK.
Julie creates a range of architectural ironwork, home wares and garden art, using traditional blacksmithing and fabrication methods incorporating contemporary and classic feminine design.
Whilst studying at Camberwell Art College in London, Julie found her love for blacksmithing. After completing her degree she travelled to learn and work the craft from a variety of metalworkers and blacksmiths before setting up on her own as a sculptural blacksmith in Shropshire.
Relocating in 2008, Julie now works from a rural workshop based in the Chilterns. Close to the Ridgeway and the River Thames, popular and scenic destinations such as Oxford, Goring and Henley-on-Thames are close by.
With steel being such a versatile material, it allows a wealth of potential in the designing and making processes. Hot forging makes metals pliable (especially steel and bronze), enabling pieces to be shaped into the desired finish.
‘Although fluid as plasticine when worked, the action of creating with metals is physically demanding and can be draining. However, the creative journey that ensues with each project is ultimately a rewarding one. I thrive on designing works that demonstrate and reflect a tactile theme. Surface textures and forms that blend comfortably within art with fine craft and design.’
Work undertaken is mainly commission based. Focusing on both private and public art sectors and sculptural projects alike. All of these projects are tailored to suit client’s individual and specific requirements.
Commissioning a unique, personalised design of quality is totally worthwhile but also a major investment both financially and emotionally.
Below are the stages involved with commissioning a project:
- An initial meeting is made to discuss the project and determine the clients wants, needs, timeframe and the available budget.
- If the meeting is at the intended location preliminary measurements can be taken.
- A design fee is agreed to cover the design phase.
The Design Phase involves research and exploration of any discussed themes to create a design, or designs. Scale and materials are considered at this time and the cost of making.
A second meeting, either on site or at the studio, designs are shown and discussed. Alterations to the chosen design can be made at this stage. Once a design is chosen the first payment is required to start the making.
The making – clients are encouraged to visit the studio to see the progress of the project. A second payment is required at this stage.
The finishing – including any finishes that have been decided on, such as galvanising, painting, etc. The installing – delivering and installation, depending on what has been previously discussed. The final payment is made on completion of the project.
de with care and is built to last.
The quality of Julie’s work is to a high standard and any project undertaken is made with care and is built to last.
With a unique approach to each commission, pieces are guaranteed to have a balance of elegance that will suit the environment they are intended for.
Smaller speculative items are available to purchase direct from Julie as well as during shows such as the Oxfordshire Artweek (which runs in May) and at selected exhibitions by the Oxfordshire Craft Guild, of which Julie is a member.
Whether you’re looking for an enigmatic sculpture of a larger than life flying Kingfisher sculpture or water feature for the garden, a themed gate or railings for your property, an ornate bed frame for the bedroom or a special birthday or anniversary gift, all commissions will be considered.
To commission a hand crafted, bespoke birthday gift, wedding or anniversary present, or a larger project for the home or garden, please contact Julie direct.