Country Arts SA pays respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and recognises their continuing connection and spiritual relationship to these lands, waters and skies. We are committed to listening and helping care for Country, and to safeguard, share and celebrate First Nations’ living cultures.
Mr Benjiman Walker-Cutts – Barry Gardner Mentorship
Ben at work in Barry Gardner’s Studio – Cutting and Stacking. Image by Barry Gardner.
Project Summary
Emerging artisan Ben
Cutts was mentored by Master Knife Maker Barry Gardner in the art of Japanese
pattern welding in steel, through a forge welding process at the Jam Factory
studio in Seppeltsfield Winery. Ben decided to seek support to develop his
craft to a higher level so that he could pursue a place in the Australian Knife
Makers Guild and become a bespoke Knife Maker.
Project Type – Professional development for artist and arts workers
Artform – Crafts and textiles
Project Cost – $5,639
Amount Funded – $4,980
Primary Beneficiary – Artists and arts workers
Grant Type – Step Out Grant
From The Artist
“I have learned a whole raft of new techniques that will enable me to
work with new materials and equipment, this mentorship has taken me to a point
where I can confidently create and apply new skills in my own forge at home”
Outcomes
Ben has successfully become a probationary member of the Australian Knife Makers Guild. He is now proficient in a wide range of skills learned specifically through the mentorship with Barry Gardener, made possible through the Regional Arts Fund Step Up grant program. Ben is now self-sufficient working from his home studio in the Riverland, taking custom orders for his unique custom made knives.