We are an Artisan group that has joined together to make the most of our diverse skills and outlooks. It is our sincere desire to promote, encourage and show the public and other interested persons the tremendous contributions and skill of the traditional Blacksmith and the relevance of their contributions in the modern world. We provide continuing skills training for our members, along with a place to develop their artistic skills with like minded persons, regardless of the modern or traditional expression.
ABGT BEGINNINGS
In 2010 blacksmiths Vince Nakovics and Joe Gentile joined forces to start the Artist Blacksmiths Group of Tidewater. Their goal is to encourage and support the traditional and artistic side of ironwork with like minded persons. In the beginning it was just the two of them that challenged each other to do better work and come up with new designs, to practice and develop their skills.
Meetings are held on the second Saturday of each month in the Virginia Beach area. During our meetings we conduct various training for our members or work on projects that ABGT has agreed to make.
At present there are no dues to join the ABGT. They still uphold the tradition of "Iron in the Hat" and ask anyone attending a meeting to participate.
Our group occasionally takes road trips instead of, or in addition to our regular meetings, to visit other Blacksmith Shops or events.
Thank you for visiting this website and please check back again soon. We will be developing as a unique and diverse group of Artists promoting and performing the craft of Blacksmithing. You don't have to be a blacksmith to join, just someone who is interested and who can contribute to the goals of the Group. For additional information please contact us via the Contact Page.
'American Blacksmisths - In Their Own Words' is available her by clicking on the book cover below. You will be redirected to the order page. Signed copies are also available on Ebay. Let me know who you want it made out to. Vince.
This is ABGT's Awesome 2011 pictorial review. If you wish to order a personalized issue contactrestoreman123@msn.com to make
arrangements
