In October 2020 we were delighted to open our very own forge. Set within the grounds of our Ditchingham community, the Orchard Forge gives our companions the opportunity to get creative, learn a whole new set of skills and help us upcycle or recycle more items than ever before.
One of the very first projects we worked on in our Orchard Forge was a sculpture, designed and created by our companions. We hope that this sculpture will feature in the Raveningham Sculpture Trail 2021. Until then, you can see it on display in our orchard.
Our companions were incredibly lucky to be guided through their first sculpture by leading metal sculptor Leigh Dyer. The installation of the forge and the project with Leigh has been funded by donations from supporters and is also supported by Arts Council England.
Once COVID-19 restrictions are lifted and life returns to normal, we will be looking to partner with local artists and blacksmiths to continue to train our companions in the use of the forge and the equipment in it, and create new and exciting items to sell on in our shops in Ditchingham and Norwich. We are keen to speak to anyone with experience in working in a forge and would like to donate some of their time to supporting our companions with this project.
Cecile Roberts, Chief Executive“We know it takes much more than just a roof over someone’s head to help them overcome homelessness. That’s why we provide meaningful work in our social enterprise and continue to look for ways to offer exciting opportunities for learning new skills.”
New opportunities
We don’t just support people for a few weeks, or even a few months. There is no time limit at Emmaus. When someone comes to live with us, they make it their home until they are ready to live independently.
This project was suggested by the people we support. They want to learn learn something new and have the chance to create metal goods to sell in our shops. This will help to raise money for the place they call home.
Waveney Valley Sculpture Trail
As part of the project, we will be working with local artist Leigh Dyer. He is a sculptor specialising in stainless steel metal. Leigh will train our residents in the ancient art of blacksmithing. He will also help to design a sculpture for next year’s Waveney Valley Sculpture Trail.