Inspired 2025 – Museum in the Park, Stroud
12th–14th September
Register your place here!
As we approach this year’s BABA Conference and AGM, with its emphasis on nurturing the next generation of blacksmiths and designers, I find myself reflecting on my own journey—and the pivotal role BABA has played in it.
My introduction to blacksmithing came in 1981, thanks to David Petersen, who had the vision to organise a residency with Alfred Habermann and Vaclav Jaroš at the art college in Carmarthen, where he was Head of Sculpture. I remember it vividly: on their very first day, Freddie called me over, placed a sledgehammer in my hand, and had me striking for him. From that moment, I was hooked. Every day during their stay, I was given the chance to work alongside them.
I was a first-year student in my first term, and my introduction to BABA coincided almost perfectly with my introduction to blacksmithing. That experience marked the beginning of an incredible journey—one that has taken me around the world and introduced me to the most generous, enthusiastic, and supportive people you could ever imagine meeting. Along the way, I’ve formed lasting friendships that continue to shape both my work and my life.
BABA has offered similar opportunities to countless members over the years. The chance to be inspired by international demonstrators, to make new connections, and to sit and chat with world-renowned masters is a privilege we don’t take for granted. Time and again, we’re reminded that some of the biggest names in our craft are also the most humble—always willing to share their knowledge, their time, and a different way of seeing things.
This year’s Inspired BABA Conference and AGM, held at the Museum in the Park in Stroud, takes a fresh approach—one that moves slightly away from tradition. The focus of this event is on encouraging emerging talent and building confidence in the next generation through mentorship and support.
Our demonstrators this year are a student and a recent graduate, selected from a strong pool of applicants. Artist presentations will also come from craftspeople new to BABA events, and we’re grateful they’ve accepted the invitation. Standing in front of a crowd of peers and colleagues to speak about something as personal as your own work can be a daunting prospect—but also a powerful and affirming one.
There will, of course, be some familiar faces joining us—offering further insight into their practice and continuing the rich exchange of ideas that defines our community.
We’re also excited to host a panel discussion with experts in their respective fields, which promises to shine a light on some of the pressing issues facing our education system—as well as the growing impact of mental health challenges in our society. Through open dialogue, we hope to explore ways in which our craft might contribute meaningfully to these conversations.
Putting all of this into context—and adding a special layer of inspiration—is our beautiful venue. The event coincides with the curated exhibition Earth Fire Iron: Alan Evans and the New Iron Age, as well as a presentation on the Cotswold Arts and Crafts movement by celebrated lecturer and former Chair of the Gloucestershire Guild of Craftsmen, Mary Greenstead.
I hope this full and thoughtfully curated programme offers something of interest to all members—and I look forward to welcoming you to Stroud for what promises to be a very special weekend, 12th–14th September.
Andy Rowe
BABA Chairman
Pricing Information:
BABA Member Price: £ 130.00
Non-BABA Member Price: £ 175.00
Special opportunity for non-members… Join BABA at a reduced cost of just £30 when purchased with your ticket. Price: £ 205.00
Spouse / Partner Price: £ 65.00
Children (Under 16): FREE
Student / Apprentice Price: £ 65.00
Student Steward Price £35
(special pricing requires a code from your education institution)
Register your place here
Merchandise
Once again we are offering BABA merchandise which can be purchased in advanced and collected at the event. Please use the link below to order. Cutoff date for orders is August 20th.
Conference T Shirt
This year’s T-shirt is available to order with your ticket for collection at the event. It’s available in your choice of denim blue or golden yellow, in both adult and kids’ sizes. Cutoff date for orders is August 20th.
Programme
The latest programme is available here:
Programme for AGM 2025 (Ver 14)
Camping
A campsite has been arranged in the Slad valley, 7 miles from the venue, this is a large unrestricted site so cooking, camp fires and alcohol are all permitted, and toilet and hot shower facilities are available. The cost is £12 per pitch, per night for a tent or van, payable with your ticket booking. Dogs are also welcome.
Given the distance from the Museum a mini bus shuttle service will be provided free of charge for all delegates that choose to use the campsite.
Campsite address:
Buckshead Farm Campsite
B4070, Gloucester, Gloucestershire GL4 8HG