Acme Anvil was begun inauspiciously in my back garden shed in
1992. The room was about the size of a pantry so I had to keep
some of the tools in the house. It was February in Canada and
before you ask, yes it was cold. Have I mentioned it had a dirt
floor. Very pioneer. Initially I made things like clocks, candle
holders and picture frames. I found it challenging and fun to
design and create larger pieces. I had been a jeweler for 5 years
previous to this. Steel was my new passion it was something I knew
I could explore for years.
 I
began making utensils in 1998. It was difficult at first working
with stainless steel but after some frustration a style emerged
that I consider unique. My serving pieces have been described as
contemporary, cool even funky but I feel they also have a timeless
appeal that can transcend fashion.
My present studio is in a small warehouse on the banks of the
Sydenham river in Owen Sound, Ontario. Three large picture windows
in the forging room look out through the drooping willow branches
on the waters of Georgian Bay. Yes it is as picturesque as it
sounds. I love the idea that I could jump into a boat here and
sail to anywhere on the Great Lakes and on through the St.
Lawrence seaway to anywhere in the world. If I told you about the
light reflecting off the waters late in the afternoon onto the
ceiling of the studio and turning the room into a virtual aquarium
that would probably be to much. Lets leave it that I have a
wonderful place in which to work.
I truly hope that people will use my pieces at there family
gatherings for years and that they will be passed on to further
generations. The idea of Acme utensils being part of evening meals
at Grandmas or backyard picnics at aunt Junes makes me very
satisfied. Thanks for your interest in my work, check back
periodically to see what I have been up to.
Sincerely
Alan McIntosh |
