The Blacksmithing Creativity of Sean Berube
Lowcountry artisan creates one-of-a-kind steel sculptures to make a design statement in homes and gardens
Blacksmithing is an ancient craft originating in 1500 BC, first practiced by the Hittites in the Anatolia region of present-day Turkey to shape iron into weapons and tools. It was a highly necessary craft in the Middle Ages when the demand increased for better weapons and armor. The Industrial Revolution changed the face of blacksmithing when many of the processes were automated. With fewer tradesmen needed, it opened the door to modern blacksmithing, where creations became more focused on artistic expression.
Modern Lowcountry South Carolina blacksmith and sculptor Sean Berube, trained at the American College of the Building Arts in Charleston, SC, is one of The Wren’s represented artisans. From his studio, he creates custom 3-D sculptures of fantastical aquatic life and extinct creatures by blacksmithing hollow tubes of steel. His love of marine biology shines through his bespoke creations.
“I treat steel like clay, forging and fabricating it to create sculptures based on the coolest parts of nature,” Berube says. “My favorite part is combining traditional blacksmithing with modern fabrication.” Since blacksmithing is a slow, detailed process, he spends many hours on each of his creations. One such recent project, a large coral reef made of forged steel and attached to stone, took him 2,200 hours to fabricate and hand-paint. “It’s a slow art form, but I love the detailed work. I think many people are surprised by how heavy my finished sculptures are, despite the fact that I’m working with hollow tubing.”
What makes Berube’s work unique are the creative liberties he takes when formulating a new marine sculpture. “None of my animals are necessarily scientifically correct,” he says, “but I have a willingness to combine fantastical creatures with their environments that sets me apart.” Berube often combines multiple materials in his sculptures, including bronze, steel, copper, and stone. Some of his works are fully articulated, with many points of movement.
Today, he is also fabricating modern furniture and home accessories for The Wren’s customers on commission, recently completing side tables and candleholders. His love of creating organic forms with high detail translates well into the home design industry.
While his work is in some private collections, it also is currently on display at Star Gospel Mission in downtown Charleston, SC, and the College of Charleston. He also has exhibited at the Charleston City Gallery.
“The Wren enjoys representing the most talented and creative artisans in the world who are masters of their craft,” says The Wren’s founder, Lori Bate. “We’re fortunate that sometimes the most creative craftsmen are in our own backyard.”
