Yesterday I had the opportunity to speak with someone who has been a major influence and helped inspire me to pursue the craft of blacksmithing ten years ago. The first time I laid eyes on Daniel Miller’s work it opened my mind to the elegance, precision, balance and articulate expression that could be achieved through well designed and meticulously executed metalwork. From the finest detail to a complete project, he displays amazing control over a virtually static material using very refined joinery and shaping techniques; paying strict attention to every line and contour with every swing of the hammer. 

I first met Daniel amongst a crowd of thousands of blacksmiths, enthusiasts and spectators in a sun soaked 95 degree Kentucky University parking lot at a blacksmithing conference in July of ‘04. Having first seen his work in print and online in early 2000, I recognized him immediately when we literally bumped into one other walking towards the same spot in a crowd around a demonstration that was taking place. I introduced myself and quickly explained how his work played a role in the formation and pursuit of a major passion and how I respected his approach to his work and what he was able to create. The conversation quickly rolled into the greater philosophies surrounding mindfulness, meaningful work and how life, work and passions can all be intertwined and continuous. Apparently, we both walked away from that eight minute conversation equally impacted; student and mentor learning from one another. Six months later, I received a sincere and heartfelt handwritten three page letter from him reflecting on our conversation and how much it meant to him that his work had impacted someone in such a way. He wished me the best of luck in all my endeavors.

A few days ago, I emailed Daniel an image of my most recent project, touching base for the first time since sending him a follow-up email in February of ‘05. I briefly explained our original conversation, his inspiring me and went on to describe the image of the sculpture in detail. My phone rang yesterday afternoon and I decided to answer the call from a strange area code. I’m very glad I did; it was Mr. Miller. Daniel said he remembered our conversation and like-mindedness very well and then had some incredibly deep and positively flattering interpretations and compliments about the piece. We jumped right back into the esoteric and philosophical dialogue about our work and also discussed various aspects of our businesses and processes. Halfway through this conversation, I realized that I was talking to both a peer AND a mentor; each having a strong appreciation and understanding of the others work. A great realization for anyone in any profession. A potent evolutionary step for anyone working in the world of art, design, craft and the built environment.

As you shift gears through your career, profession, trade or life passion, take time to reflect upon milestones as they occur. Fully appreciate where you have come from and all that you have accomplished, allowing it to inspire the launch into the next phase or tangent of your work, knowing that you are obviously on the right path…