Rudy L. Billings, Artist-Blacksmith
His interest in blacksmithing came several years ago when he needed to place a 100 pound rock on a wall to complement a bronze sculpture. Since then, Rudy has been creating one-of-a-kind items such as roses, crosses, even branding irons, and has become a nationally-known artist-blacksmith.
"A blacksmith is an extremely privileged person. The nature of his craft allows him to do things to metal that no other artisan can do. Transforming a rusty piece of iron into something as simple as a door hinge or as elegant as a delicate flower are both rewarding."
From his studio-workshop in Austin, Texas, Rudy uses his Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Technology as the foundation for his work, allowing him to develop unique methods of forging iron.
One proud owner of a Billings work is William Holman, Publisher, who has a handsome black stallion on a wooden mount exhibited in his new home. He praises its beauty, "Rudy's creative artistry lights up a room."
Selected works available at:
National Ornamental Metal Museum ~ Memphis, Tennessee
Pioneer Museum ~ Fredericksburg, Texas
Member:
Artist-Blacksmiths Association of North America
ABANA is a non-profit organization with a membership of over 5,000 artist-blacksmiths.Balcones Forge
An organization of Central Texas Blacksmiths; an affiliate of ABANA. Treasurer, 2005-2006; President, 2007-2008HABA
Houston Area Blacksmith Association; an affiliate of ABANA.Works published in Ironwork Today 2 Red Hot Iron Works at Art and Design Online
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