Special Exhibits
The 2023-2024 Botanical Blacksmiths exhibition has ended. Please check back soon for more special exhibits.
Botanical Blacksmiths
December 2, 2023 - April 12, 2024
Blacksmithing: From Colonial Tools to Contemporary Art
Talk & Demonstration | February 24 | 2pm | Free
Blacksmiths have been important members of society for thousands of years. The museum here has many examples of their work supporting the Tubac Presidio and the settlers in the area. We will explore some of the stories behind those artifacts: what life was like for a colonial blacksmith here at the Presidio as well as a brief look at the tools and techniques a colonial blacksmith would have used. We will then look at how things have changed for blacksmiths from the colonial period to the present day leading to the sculptures currently on display on the Presidio grounds.
The art of blacksmithing is alive and well and on display at the Tubac Presidio. For the third year, members of the Arizona Artist Blacksmith Association (AABA) and friends will be sharing their artwork created for an outdoor setting. Situated throughout the Presidio gardens, the exhibit includes functional pieces and sculptural pieces that combine elements of hand forged ironwork, modern metalworking techniques, found objects and stone to show how the historic art of blacksmithing is manifest in today’s world.
The Botanical Blacksmith exhibit runs from December 2, 2023 through April 12, 2024. Artwork is available for sale and can be taken at the time of purchase. A portion of the sales price goes towards supporting the Tubac Presidio. For more information about AABA, visit azblacksmiths.org