Stephen’s workshop is an incredible treasure trove of sculpture, installation pieces, and raw materials, waiting to be shaped into something intricate and beautiful. We documented him and his daughter, Ashlee, at work to capture a snapshot of their lives as blacksmiths. The atmosphere is rich with history, as they carry on the skills passed down through four generations, transforming hot metal into works of art. 

Stephen admits that sometimes the responsibility of passing on this heritage can feel overwhelming. “I have panic attacks because there’s so much to pass on to Ashlee,” he says with a smile, acknowledging the weight of preserving such a long-standing tradition. “You don’t realise how much you have to share until you stop and sit down to think about it.” For Ashlee, working in the same space where her grandfather and great-grandfather once stood is a humbling experience. She finds strength and inspiration in their shared skills, even as she and her father bring their own complementary approaches to the craft. 

The process of blacksmithing, as Stephen explains, is about more than just making objects—it’s about keeping a way of life alive. When he was a child, he thought he was simply playing in his grandfather’s workshop, not realising that he was being taught the skills that would define his life. Now, as he passes on those lessons to Ashlee, he is reminded of the addictive satisfaction of creating something from hot metal, and the thrill of not always knowing how it will turn out. 

Stephen and Ashlee’s story is part of a larger narrative that spans families, communities, and cultures around the world. From learning a cherished family recipe to mastering a unique craft, skills passed down from one generation to the next are a treasure trove of knowledge. These abilities enrich lives and form the threads that bind us to our past while also inspiring the future. 

Their journey is captured in the second of a four-part film series that celebrates the extraordinary talents of ordinary people and the wisdom they share. The series explores how skills are passed down—from parents to children, mentors to apprentices, and within communities. It highlights the beauty of these intergenerational conversations and the deep value of sharing knowledge in meaningful, lasting ways. 

Their message is clear: we are never too young or too old to learn new skills. Whether it’s blacksmithing, sewing, knitting, or any other craft, these timeless abilities provide a sense of accomplishment, connection, and creativity. More importantly, they hold the potential to be passed on to the next generation, ensuring that this rich heritage remains alive and thriving. 

By preserving and sharing traditional skills like blacksmithing, we honour our past, enrich our present, and inspire a future where the value of hands-on craftsmanship is never forgotten. 

You can watch Stephen and Ashlee’s film below. 

The Joy of Sharing Skills Across Generations 

1. Preservation of Knowledge: Sharing skills between generations helps ensure that valuable knowledge and traditions are kept alive. This is especially important for nurturing traditional crafts, cultural practices, and unique skills that enrich our lives and could easily be forgotten.
2. Growth in Professional Settings: In workplaces, passing skills from experienced employees to younger team members not only supports high standards of competence but also creates a nurturing environment. This mentorship fosters the sharing of best practices and insights, allowing everyone to grow together. 
3. Personal Development: For younger generations, learning from their elders opens up wonderful opportunities for personal growth and the development of essential life skills. This exchange encourages respect and understanding, strengthening the bonds between different generations. 

As we find ourselves living in an increasingly digital world, the importance of preserving and sharing traditional skills cannot be overstated. Stephen and Ashlee’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the rich source of knowledge that exists within our families and communities. Each skill passed down—, like Stephen’s blacksmith skills – carries a legacy that connects us to our past and empowers future generations. 

By embracing and celebrating these skills, we not only honour those who came before us but also enrich our own lives and the lives of others. The act of sharing knowledge helps us build deeper connections, inspires creativity, and cultivates resilience in a rapidly changing world. 

Let us take a moment to reflect on the skills within us and the unique stories they tell. Together, we can ensure that these invaluable traditions continue to thrive, weaving a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come. Join us in celebrating and sharing the skills that define us—because when we pass on our knowledge, we create a legacy that lasts.