Forging Legends: Alan Evans Exhibition at The Museum in the Park
Earth Fire Iron: Alan Evans and the New Iron Age
The Museum in the Park in Stroud hosts a remarkable celebration of the life and work of acclaimed artist-blacksmith Alan Evans (1952–2023), whose influence helped forge a new era for contemporary metalwork in Britain and beyond.
Running until Sunday 2 November, Earth Fire Iron: Alan Evans and the New Iron Age brings together an extraordinary range of pieces, from intimate models to the small-scale design for Evans’ first major commission – the Treasury Gates at St Paul’s Cathedral. The exhibition also features works by fellow metal artists from across Britain and Europe, highlighting the vibrancy and innovation of the craft.
This special programme extends beyond the museum, with linked exhibitions and events across Gloucestershire, making this a dynamic celebration of craftsmanship, creativity, and community – perfect for families during the October half term.
Blacksmiths in Residence
Hawkwood College, GL6 7QW
Hawkwood College hosts a six-day residency for postgraduate students Mark Rogers and Ren Garside from Hereford College of Arts. Visitors can meet the artists, watch live forging demonstrations, and enjoy an exhibition of MA Forged Metal Arts students’ work. The event champions sustainability and innovation in forged metal arts.
> More info at Museum in the Park
Live Forging Demos
St Laurence Church, Centre for Peace & the Arts, Stroud GL5 1JL
Watch postgraduate artists Cameron Pearson and Mark Rogers alongside Simon Bushell’s innovative Nowhere Forge as they demonstrate traditional forging techniques – including the recreation of a unique door latch. Free entry, no booking required.
> More info at Museum in the Park
Blacksmithing Demos with The Nowhere Forge
The Museum in the Park, Stroud GL5 4AF
Experience the mesmerising art of blacksmithing in the Walled Garden as talented smiths demonstrate this elemental craft up close. Free, drop-in sessions, all welcome.
> More info at Museum in the Park
Chasing Nature: Creative Family Workshops
The Museum in the Park, Stroud GL5 4AF
Discover basic metal chasing techniques to create votive plaques inspired by native plants and creatures and the beautiful Walled Garden. Guided by Artist Blacksmithing students from Hereford College of Arts, families will transfer designs onto metal plates and use hammers and punches to emboss them – crafting unique art pieces to take home. For families with children aged 5+. Free, donations welcome.
> More info at Museum in the Park
Story Anvil – Tales to Spark the Imagination!
The Museum in the Park, Stroud GL5 4AF
Storytellers Fiona Eadie and Kirsty Hartsiotis forge enchanting tales of legendary blacksmiths – the ‘wizards of metal and flame’. For ages 6+. Tickets £5 / £3, booking required.
> More info at Museum in the Park
Folk Ore – Tales of Darkness, Fire & Transformation
The Museum in the Park, Stroud GL5 4AF
Step into a world of myth and metallurgy with storytellers Fiona Eadie and Kirsty Hartsiotis, from two shapeshifting magicians to Freya’s golden necklace and Hephaestus’ golden net – even the very dome of the sky forged by the Finnish magician Ilmarinen. For ages 12+. Tickets £5 / £3, booking required.
> More info at Museum in the Park
Explore Gloucestershire
9 October 2025
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