Life of an Artist: Rusty Laidlaw

by Ellen Nguyen

Traditionally when you think of an artist, you imagine paintings, photographs or even sculptures.  Very rarely does someone think of blacksmithing. Blacksmiths work primarily with wrought iron or steel, and records of it as a profession date back centuries.

Rusty Laidlaw is the owner of Laidlaw Forgeworks, situated in scenic Mission. I stumbled upon this smithy during an open house and was mesmerized by the tools and process included in this craft.

Rusty is a journeyman blacksmith and has been a blacksmith for over 20 years. His main study included steel metallurgy and traditional blacksmithing.  His expertise is toolmaking and metal casting, while incorporating natural elements into his work. It was his passion for the craft, along with his love of teaching that pushed him to open up Laidlaw Forgeworks.

He offers private and group lessons ranging from 1 hour to 20 hour courses.  There are classes for youth, couples and hobbyists. Rusty has developed a Hand Forging Certification Program, an accelerated apprenticeship program; he also has plans to run a youth apprenticeship program.

If you are looking for a unique piece of artwork or just want to learn about this craft, you may reach him  at (604) 674-5104 or [email protected]