Ballymena Cultural Directory

Eamonn Higgins
  • Date of Formation: 10/09/2009
  • Number of Members: 1
  • Category: Crafts

Tannaghmore Blacksmith Workshop (TBW) of which Eamonn is founder and co-tutor, received highly commended at the National Craft Skills Awards 2013 presented by HRH Prince Charles. Due to the success of these workshops Eamonn has now created a mobile blacksmithing class. Classes have already taken place in the R-space Gallery Lisburn, Downpatrick County Museum, Tannaghmore Open Farm (as part of TBW). Eamonn is always open to expanding his itinerary with future classes at the University of Ulster (Belfast) and An Creagan, Omagh already pencilled in this year. The blacksmithing classes are tailored to suit everyone from complete beginners to experienced metal workers.

www.learntoblacksmith.co.uk exists to revive the ancient craft of blacksmithing in Northern Ireland. Our aim is to pass on skills to as large a demographic as possible

Accolades

Highly Commended at the National Craft Skills Awards 2013 (TBW)
CraftNI Making 2011 Artist in Residence University of Ulster,
Eamon has been funded and been given awards from Craigavon Borough Council, Ballymena Borough Council, Lincoln City Council, Arts Council NI, Sustainable Transport Network and European Fund PEACE III.

Frequently asked question

If I am interested in joining your group how do I go about it?

Contact Eamonn directly for information on upcoming workshops in your area. Alternatively follow the social networking links. The workshops are aimed at anyone over the age of 16 interesting in trying blacksmithing

Who is your group aimed at or who do you cater for?

To learn new craft skills or advance their present skills base.

Do I have to pay membership dues to join?

The nature of the classes mean they tend to be pay as you go. Prices vary depending on location but tend to be extremely competitive compared to similar types of workshops.

Are there any ongoing expenses associated with membership e.g. materials, insurance, fees?

No, see above

How often do you meet?

Tannaghmore Blacksmith workshop meets every Saturday at Tannaghmore open Farm, the mobile classes vary according to their locality

Where do you meet?

22 Lisnamanny Rd
Martinstown
Ballymena
Co. Antrim
BT43 6QH

Is there any criteria potential members must meet in order to join the group? e.g. experience

Must be over 16

What can I expect to learn if I join the group?

As a bare minimum some basic blacksmithing skills can be picked up relatively quickly. The more time spent in the classes logically leads to more advanced skills

Can I join the group as an observer or must I actively participate?

Of course, however participation is hard to not be tempted by

What is the usual demographic of the group, gender, age group etc?

Over 16, the demographic does vary, however unlike other 'Craft Workshops' we do have a truly mixed gender spread

What they say?

  • Lord Puttnam of Queensgate / CBE

    "Ballymena's Creative Citizens Programme is a wonderful opportunity for everyone to experience the Arts."

  • Liam Neeson / OBE, Freeman of Ballymena

    "Ballymena and the Borough have always had a deep creative 'pool' in all the arts. It's wonderful and, personally, exciting for me that this pool is being tapped into and explored by this wonderful creative alliance. I'm very proud of you all!"