In this first installment of our AMA-UTA CreateCollab, senior Nicole Rios explores “A Blacksmith’s Craft” in her original photo essay.
Read more about our partnership below.
A BLACKSMITH’S CRAFT
ABOUT MY PHOTO ESSAY
by Nicole Rios
Whenever we think of swords we think of medieval times where knights would storm into battle, wearing their suites of armor and wielding their swords. Even though today swords are usually not the choice of weapon for a battle, does not mean they are in any less demand. A Blacksmith’s Craft tells the tale of blacksmith Ryan Lynch, and takes the viewers through the process of sword making. It partners with the exhibit A Knight’s Tale by highlighting the expertise and craftmanship it takes to make these weapons that are made for everyday use and are not props. A knight’s sword was an honor that was cherished by the ones that wielded it. This story highlights the skills necessary to work in a forge, such as using certain types of machines and tools.
In the process there is forging, hardening and tempering in order to complete the sword. There are materials such as anvils, hammers, furnaces, kilns and drill press machines- all vital for the process. This specific forge called Angel Sword is located in Driftwood, TX and has been open since the 1980’s. Angel Sword blacksmiths make anything from everyday kitchen knives to swords that are ready for one-on-one combat. Every sword starts as a plank of steel that must be shaped using an anvil, hammer and fire. Next it must be heated and extinguished to make it durable enough for the battlefield. Lastly, it must be sharpened, shaped and fitted with handles and guards before being inspected to finally leaving the shop. They have a multitude of designs to choose from their creative minds and offer custom creations to their customers. There are many projects being worked on at the same time with different techniques being used to complete them. To complete a sword it takes long hours, focus and determination to create something one is proud of and ready to leave the shop. A Blacksmith’s Craft takes you through the grueling process that requires time, focus and expertise.
Meet Nicole Rios
I am a journalism major and senior at the University of Texas at Arlington. Previously a graduate from the Art Institute of Dallas with an Associate Degree of Applied Science in Photography, I focus my art on portraiture and event photography. I chose Journalism to highlight the importance of knowledge on everyday life.
In my spare time I like to attend music events that cover a wide range of genres. I also enjoy traveling, having been to 15 other states and one other country. Lastly, I like to read fiction and memoirs, adding books to my growing collection.
About AMA-UTA CreateCollab
Throughout the Fall 2022 semester, the Arlington Museum of Art is partnering with The University of Texas at Arlington and a senior-level digital storytelling class to explore a wide variety of contemporary themes inspired by “A Knight’s Tale.”
Class projects include photo essays, one-minute documentaries, and one-minute podcasts about themes as broad as sword fighting with light sabers, fulfilling family legacies, every day heroes, and modern metalsmithing.
Associate Professor of Communication Erika Pribanic-Smith, who teaches the class, values opportunities to bring real-world experiences to her students.
“My goal is to give my students real-world experience in all of my classes, creating real stories using real sources,” said Dr. Pribanic-Smith. “Creating stories that will be published for the public to see, not just submitted for a grade, gives students extra incentive to put forth their best effort. Furthermore, working with professionals gives the students another layer of feedback to re-enforce what they’re learning in the classroom. I prefer to work with organizations like the Arlington Museum of Art who will benefit in some way from the students’ content so that we are providing a service to the community.”
