The picture below is my first stumbling venture into the timeless traditional craft of knife making. Since the dawn of time humans have fashioned tools for everyday living. As with many things these skills have evolved into a complex and diverse set of disciplines which I am endeavoring to participate in.
When I first saw some of the modern knife makers art I was astonished at the level of skill and abilities required to produce these magnificent items. I got straight down to work hunting down the raw materials to make my own. Not having access to a forge or a metal workshop I decided to start by buying an already manufactured blade to which I was going to attempt to craft the handle. With materials on their way I eagerly set about making the necessary preparations to begin work. The next day the blade arrived, neatly packaged, and I tore it open to reveal the polished glint of steel. It was only then that it dawned on me, like someone leaving a darkened room into the bright sun, that this was a weapon....
This may seem at first naive, but I was so caught up in the design and craftsmanship involved that I failed to see the obvious. It was also at this time of receiving the blade that it came on the television news that yet another young person had lost their life to knife crime here in England.
All through the making of this piece I felt a tangible unease as if I was doing something wrong. the question I suppose that I am putting to you here is...
Am I potentially contributing to the glorification of weapons in society by posting pictures of my work on the Internet? (Even though, I might add, this knife will stay locked away now until I find a responsible adult collector to pass it on to.)
Or can I feel safe in the knowledge that a weapon is 'in the eye of the beholder' so to speak. in other words if you intend something to be a weapon it becomes one whatever it might be.
If you have any thoughts on this please leave a comment.
Craftsman
2 comments:
DO NOT feel guilty. One who wants to kill can find many methods. As they say, it's not guns that kill, but the people who abuse them.
While I'm in favor of gun control, we can't do away with every class of object that can be used as a weapon.
You don't advertise knives on kid's sites, I assume, so there should be no problem. You are not responsible for the ills of the world!
I agree with Lynda, You can not be responsible for anothers actions.
Knives are also used for other things, I can't imagine cutting my food with a rock.
You truly are a craftsman by what I see here, I've enjoyed your art.
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