Lives Shaped by Steel: Celebrating East Coast Outdoor Metal Artists

Title: Lives Shaped by Steel: Celebrating East Coast Outdoor Metal Artists

Author: Nancy B. Zastrow

Published by The Copper Heron, Silver Spring, MD 2004

ISBN: 0-9759489-0-3

Library of Congress # LCCN2004095366

238 pages, including contact information for the blacksmiths presented in the book.

((Generally when I write a book review, I try to be objective about the book. This is very difficult in this case because Nancy is a dear friend. However, I think that I can unabashedly say that the accolades and praise for this book are well deserved and has nothing to do with the fact that I know Nancy. afd))

This book is a wonderful survey of blacksmiths who are currently producing exterior ironwork up and down the east coast from Maine down to Florida. Nancy visited, interviewed and photographed 39 contemporary blacksmiths. They represent a wide range of styles, from very traditional to modern abstract; large public installations to small intimate garden pieces.

The book is beautifully crafted with text and many black/white and color pictures. It is divided geographically, starting with the New England region, moving through the Mid-Atlantic down to the south and Florida. There are about 5 to 7 pages devoted to each smith. . For each smith, the author gives some of his/her background and how they approach their craft.

I especially like the fact that she includes pictures of the blacksmiths. These are all smiths I have heard of, have watched and have met; now I can put the face together with the name As you read, it almost feels like you are talking to Nancy, you feel the warmth and sincerity that is her hallmark.

Contact and ordering info:

Hard cover @$60.00, plus $4.00 S&H = $64.00
Soft cover @$45.00, plus $4.00 S&H = $49.00
Expedited shipping - Add $3.00 per book

The Copper Heron
12800 Hammonton Rd., Silver Spring, MD 20904-3523
http://www.ironartists.com nzastrow@erols.com

Book review by Albin Drzewianowski

-- AlbinDrzewianowski - 16 Dec 2007