Master Blacksmith Cyril Colnik (1871-1958) came to the United States in 1893 along with the German government to the 1893 Chicago Columbian Exposition. Born on September 20th in Triebein, Austria, Colnik initially studied metalwork locally. According to guild tradition, he then traveled Europe as a journeyman, which brought him to
After many years of producing decorative and architectural ironwork reflecting classic designs, I have more recently had the opportunity to express myself in designs that reflect more of the plasticity of the metal. Guided by my blacksmith instincts, the resulting forms are based on what I have learned over the
This is indeed going to be a journey. It will be interesting even to me as to where this dialogue leads me as the moderator, as well as you, the reader. It is my initial hope to get you better acquainted with ironwork, with my work, and to some extent,
NAUMAN’S NORTHERN SCHOOL FOR BLACKSMITHS
