In 1989, Jason Nickel began working in Jack Brubaker’s blacksmith shop. Over the years, Jason deepened his understanding and ability in blacksmithing. In 2007, he became the lead blacksmith in Jack’s shop. Jason helped his apprentice, Paolo Ansaldo, learn the basics of the craft and develop his style. “Everybody has got their own something that sets them apart,” says Jason. “People were generous to me when I was learning the blacksmithing trade. I’d like to keep the tradition alive in the next generation.”

Paolo’s favorite part of blacksmithing is transformation, “I change this lifeless lump of metal into a beautiful work of art or a useful tool.” Jason’s daughter, Iris, decided to join the apprenticeship team since she grew up watching her father work. Their apprenticeship led to the creation of a “durable and beautiful gate for the Bloomington community orchard.”