IronNote: Grave Marker - Forging Future Remembrance!
Short description
With a funding from Creative Europe, this research project explores future opportunities for blacksmiths to revitalize the market between blacksmith and local graveyards.
Grave markers crafted by local blacksmiths provide a sustainable and meaningful way to honor loved ones. These markers are durable, unique works of art tailored to individual needs, supporting local economies and preserving regional traditions. However, global industry has marginalized blacksmiths, leading to the loss of regional cultures and traditions. As society shifts towards digital memorials, the importance of preserving local traditions and creating new rituals grows.
IronNotes is a network and series of events that bring together experts, makers, students, and wider audiences. With a strong foundation in blacksmithing and metalworking, this network unites artists, makers, designers, producers, and educators from five nations to host a variety of events that expand on the idea of how metal is used in modern society (Estonia, Finland, Italy, Norway, Sweden).
This consortium seeks to find ways to strengthen the awareness of blacksmithing tradition, its possibilities to enhance regionality and co-operation between several countries. With different types of events the aim is to open the role of metal also to broader audiences with themes that link people with this special material culture.
Researchers at HDK-Valand Campus Steneby has identified how global industry has marginalized blacksmiths in sepulchral culture over the past century, resulting in the loss of regional cultures and traditions. This research project Grave Marker - Forging Future Remembrance; explores future opportunities for blacksmiths to revitalize the sepulchral market, fostering a renewed connection between blacksmiths and local graveyards.
The research cluster “Economies: Organizing, Valuating and Working” at HDK-Valand relates to the topic of grave markers crafted by local blacksmiths both examine the intersection of cultural practices, economics, and technology in shaping value and meaning in art and design. They explore how these elements influence societal norms and individual experiences.
The research cluster examines how economies and the organization of art and design shape value production, representation, and organizational change. This aligns with the role of blacksmiths in crafting grave markers, which reflect cultural values and identity. Local blacksmiths’ work emphasizes the importance of local economies and sustainable practices.
Metal Art at HDK-Valand Campus Steneby
Additionally, the study of grave markers has been an integral part of the Metal Art study program for the past 10 years, offering students insights into the historical and cultural significance of this tradition. The course cooperates with the cemetery in Trollhättan, where the outcome of the course is displayed permanently. The results of this research will continue to support and enrich the course, providing valuable knowledge and fostering a deeper understanding of how traditional crafts can evolve to meet contemporary needs.
Engaging with the Local Community
Furthermore, the research project involves local society, including other makers involved in sepulchral culture, cemeteries, and the church. This collaboration ensures that the research is rooted in the community and addresses the needs and perspectives of various stakeholders.
