Heather McLarty

Heather McLarty is an artist and blacksmith of over two decades. Having majored in technical theater in college, McLarty began her professional career as a prop builder for regional theater companies throughout the western United States. Though she often utilized metalsmithing in this role, she eventually became unsatisfied with the ephemeral nature of theatrical design. Focusing her efforts on blacksmithing allowed her to connect with an ancient human practice; a living tradition with a millennia-long history.

McLarty enjoys the slow and challenging labor inherent in this craft. She has completed public and private commissions throughout the United States, including gates, railings, sheet work, and furniture. Her work is characterized by serpentine lines and contrasting textures. Her completed surfaces often evoke the plasticity of hot metal. She has been involved with Adam’s Forge for a number of years – a nonprofit organization which hosts blacksmithing workshops and educational programs – and currently sits on its board of directors. She lives and works in Highland Park, Los Angeles.