Ray Ciemny, Recast

May 9 - July 29, 2017

Machine Cladding
(click to enlarge)

Blacksmith Ray Ciemny, is the owner and founder of Artisan Iron. From his workshop in Groton, he has been crafting exquisite custom architectural, landscape and sculptural metal works for more than 20 years. In addition to his inventory of projects gracing fortunate homes and businesses, Ray has produced several pieces of commissioned public art. At the Groton Fire Station, we can see the 911 Memorial constructed using salvaged beams from the World Trade Center. There is also the Trees Gate at Groton Public Library, among other examples.

In our 2015 gallery tribute to the Nashua River, Ray contributed a sculpture formed from remnants of the old iron Fitch’s Bridge.

Ray has been busy with some personal work that he is now sharing with us. He explains, “Recast is the result of an exploration into transforming scrap metal into my personal experience of art. Much of my past work in metals has been primarily making useful things that have to fit somewhere. This has been a freeing experience. I’ve been spending Sundays using my shop as a studio. Cutting found and scrap metal into manageable pieces...enjoying the freedom and frustrations and seeing what I come up with.”

There will be a gallery reception, featuring a talk about the Recast project with Ray, on Tuesday, June 6, 7:00 pm. All are welcome.

This exhibit is made possible by the Groton Public Library Endowment Trust.

Ken Hansen,
Curator