My name is John Ashley.  I am a functional and ornamental blacksmith and bladesmith.  I've been blessed with the opportunity to do this for many years now.  I thoroughly enjoy moving metal around to create new things.  I particularly like using metal that has been discarded and making it into something useful again.  I love making candle holders, flower sculptures, fireplace tools, knives, crosses, and any other thing I can think of.  :)

 

I grew up in Missouri and Illinois doing a lot of woodworking with my dad and that continued into my adulthood.  Then, somewhere along the way, I started taking an interest in metal working which over time led me to the art of blacksmithing.  I have always had this desire to create things and blacksmithing is definitely my outlet.  I love that one can basically make things through forging in the same way blacksmiths did it 150 years ago.

 

I enjoy making things of my own designs, but also do custom work for others.  I always love a good challenge.  Some of the best times of my life have been spent with family and friends in Colorado, and I am so thrilled to be a one of the artists at the Aspen Emporium.

 

My motto, is Handmade And Made To Be Used.