A vibrant weekend full of creativity
The metallic sound of hammer blows and the smell of hot iron resonated in Alpens during the 16th edition of the International Forge Meeting. This celebration, which took place throughout the weekend, attracted around 120 forgers from countries as diverse as Japan, Germany, Austria and Italy, with a significant female participation of fifteen women.
A successful edition with a great influx of public
Enric Pla, one of the organizers of the event, expressed his satisfaction with the results of the meeting, which he described as “spectacular”. Pla emphasized that the news introduced in the organization have been very well received. The participation of the public was notable, with approximately 5,000 visitors who have been traveling by the village since Thursday.
Masterclasses of international reputation
Two masterclasses captured the attendees, with the presence of renowned forgers such as Yukio Kanari of Japan and Davide Caprili in Italy. With 30 places full in each of the sessions, the interest in learning from professionals of this level was evident.
Shows and recognitions
The meeting also stood out for the amazing performance of the Rocadepena Devils, who presented a correfoc and a performance that included the encirclement of an anvil over four meters, a moment that left the attendees shocked.
Honorary Awards
This year’s awards were awarded to Montse Barniol for her dedication as mayor for two decades, and Valentí Martí, from Espluga de Francolí, recognized for her family career of forgers. In addition, a new prize for associations was established, which was awarded to the Association of Ferronnerie Catalana of Northern Catalonia.
An ever stronger bond
Pla emphasized the increasing connection between the neighbors of Alpens and the participating forgers. The complementary activities included artistic exhibitions, the presentation of a new tale from the collection “La Mallerenga Blue” and a children’s workshop directed by Pere Porcar, as well as a community dinner.
A moment to remember
The meeting culminated in a joint photo of the participants, which took place in the square dedicated to the Miquel Xirau forge. This edition of the International Forge Meeting is held every two years, and the organizers hope that the next edition will be just as memorable.