I am Mark Greenaway and I have been making and hitting metal things since I could hold a hammer as a toddler. Whilst this probably drove my parents bonkers at the time this became a lifelong endeavour to fix, make or modify. In the early years my passions were very much with motorcycling, in particular building old British motorbikes. This led to an understanding of engineering and bike restoration. It was during this time I met a blacksmith at the North Somerset Country Show who was esteemed in his field and a member of the Fellow Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths (FWCB) who ignited in me a passion to develop metal work skills beyond my then skill set. Under Robert Hobbs’ tutelage and guidance, I became a member of the Guild of Wrought Ironwork Craftsman of Wessex and continued my training at Cannington College. My first workshop was made possible by assuring a loan from the Prince’s Youth Business Trust, opening in 1992 in the village of Chew Stoke.
In the intervening years I have worked on various properties, estates and buildings creating or repairing Ironwork. I have had the opportunity to be involved in high-profile projects such as the restoration of the railings at Westminster Palace, refurbishing and reglazing part of the great conservatory at Syon House, restoration of Harcourt Kibworth Post Mill and have been part of the historical maintenance team working on Clifton suspension bridge. As a problem solver I love becoming completely immersed in complicated restoration ‘puzzles’ that need a solution. At times I am in awe at the precision and accuracy of objects made in a far simpler time using basic tools and equipment. I am very proud to have opened my new workshop in the Nadder valley in the beautiful and historic Wiltshire countryside where I can showcase my skills and interests.
Core Conservation Principles
Our passion is for history and historical architecture and in particular Ironwork of all ages. At Evias Forge we turn a skilled and professional eye to every detail and endeavour to retain the integrity and appeal of the original artefact. Initially we analyse and assess the artefact in its original form to understand its importance before any intervention’s take place. Based on these observations we catalogue and photograph every stage of the work process. We use traditional techniques and materials to replicate original detailing when needed for sympathetic restoration work. We work to preserve and salvage the original piece as much as possible whilst adding well-crafted replicas that blend seamlessly with the existing metalwork. Thus, resulting in conserving history for decades to come.
Evias Forge
Metalwork & Restoration
07391 625513 EviasForge@Outlook.com
No 5
Ham Cross Business Park
Teffont Evias
SP3 5RW