Jordan Semanick (Documentary Practice and Visual Journalism ’22) was assigned by The New York Times to photograph blacksmiths in Connecticut.
The assignment focuses on blacksmiths in Connecticut, photographing the growing interest in blacksmithing as a hobby and craft. Semanick documents individuals who gather in workshops and personal studios to learn traditional forging techniques, shaping raw metal into tools, decorative objects, and functional pieces. Through his images, he portrays blacksmithing as both a historic trade and a contemporary practice that continues to engage dedicated makers today.
"I was assigned to go with a writer to Connecticut to cover the growing hobby of blacksmithing. It was very exciting for me because I not only was able to photograph the assignment on film, but I was working side by side with a writer, it felt very old school journalism. It was a whole day venture; I was up before the sunrise, had to travel, went to photograph, then travel back to New York. The subject I was covering was just very fun and enjoyable, I met a group of very unique people. I have nothing but admiration for the writer and editor I worked with; both of them were so easy and fun to work with, and I would work with both of them in a heartbeat!"
See more of Jordan Semanick’s work on his website: Jordansemanick.com
Image: Jordan Semanick for The New York Times.
Jordan Semanick
