Tour a blacksmith's atelier
Frustrated smithies rejoice — local metal sculptor Stefan Dürst now offers a fascinating English-language tour of his atelier, Augenblick, (“moment” or “instant”), by appointment only. Included in this introduction to his works is a demonstration of the blacksmith’s art, a means of expression powered by hammer and forge that is rapidly dying out in a land known for craft excellence. Not unlike the famed Bauhaus designers, Dürst emphasizes the creative power of the human hand in his art. Working completely unassisted — unusual for such a physically demanding art form — Dürst resembles Nicholas Cage in Moonstruck, slaving over a glowing fire like a man possessed. “When I work, I become fully absorbed in what I’m creating,” says Dürst. “Everything else is put to one side, and the process of coaxing a form out of a flat piece of metal takes over.” The result of his efforts is a wide variety of work that ranges from the infinitely practical — candelabras and garden gates — to the towering abstract, fit only for a grand hall or sculpture garden. For an atelier tour or seminar, contact Stefan Dürst at (0179) 400 23 38 or augenblick@lycos.com.
