Name: Celeste Flores
Home town: Moreno Valley, CA
Makerspace: The Crucible, Oakland CA
Day job: Blacksmith
How did you get started making?
I went to a school for Fine Art where I was introduced to an anvil and a hammer. My teacher encouraged me, but reminded me that I was at an art school, so if I wanted to learn blacksmithing, I should go to The Crucible. I ended up taking classes in 2010 and got very involved with the organization.
What type of maker would you classify yourself as?
I would say I’m a creative entrepreneur. My interest began in fine art, but I am currently building a business that does architectural and ornamental ironwork.
What’s one of your favorite things you’ve made?
My first stair rail (seen below). It launched my business, and I have had steady work ever since then.
What is something you’d like to make but haven’t yet?
I would love to make an ornate architectural piece with a really unique theme. Like one based on space or geometry; something super specific and geeky. I love blending my creativity with another person’s vision. I think it would be so much fun to dive into a new subject matter that’s beyond researching a specific style or period of home decor.
Any advice for people reading this?
Enjoy the challenge of making, whether it’s making your own business or learning a new technique. And don’t worry about being slower, or weaker, or less skilled than others. Just keep doing it.
