Artist Blacksmith
Since joining Wheely Down Forge Ltd in 2005, William Normandale has emerged as a master blacksmith, blending tradition with innovation. Under the tutelage of his father, Charles Normandale, William honed his skills through a comprehensive apprenticeship. His dedication to the craft led him to prestigious affiliations, including membership in the Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths and the esteemed honour of receiving the Freedom of the City of London.
In his prominent role at Wheely Down Forge, William is renowned for his expertise in traditional hot forging techniques. He skilfully creates both interior and exterior pieces, infusing each project with his distinctive style. His portfolio showcases a diverse and expanding range of commissions, crafted in materials like mild steel, stainless steel, and bronze.
William's artistic vision is evident in the variety of his work. He specialises in designing and crafting bespoke items such as balconies, railings, candlesticks, entrance and pedestrian gates, door knockers and latches, screens, fireplace furniture, well covers, grilles, handrails, arbours, and pergolas. His comprehensive approach ensures that each project, from initial design to installation, is infused with a unique blend of creativity and craftsmanship.
At the heart of William's work lies a commitment to upholding the legacy of traditional blacksmithing while pushing the boundaries of modern metalwork design.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship in Hampshire
Nestled in the picturesque valley beneath the chalkland Beacon and Winchester Hills, Wheely Down Forge stands as a testament to both history and artistry. Established in 1982 by Charles Normandale, the forge breathes life into a landscape rich in heritage, overlooked by an Iron Age fort and Bronze Age burial site on Winchester Hill.
This idyllic setting, cradled by the ancient Monarch’s Way in the South Downs National Park, has always been a beacon of historical significance. The area, steeped in history, offers a serene backdrop for the forge, where one can feel the echoes of the past with every step.
Originally an agricultural site, the Wheely Down Forge grounds served various roles, including as a vital part of the war effort during WW2 with its pig breeding units. Charles Normandale transformed one of the derelict flint and brick buildings into a vibrant forge in 1982, later purchasing it along with an additional unit to create a gallery space.
As the forge evolved, the increasing scale of sculpture and metalwork projects necessitated further expansion. A third building was acquired as a fabrication studio, and a fourth converted into a home for the growing family, cementing the forge as not just a workplace but a living legacy.
The forge's central yard, a hub of activity and creativity, is visible from the road, often drawing the attention of passersby and walking groups from The Monarch’s Way. Large artworks displayed in the yard have become a point of interest, inviting those who wander by to witness the ongoing creation and evolution of metal artistry at Wheely Down Forge.
Today, Wheely Down Forge stands as a symbol of enduring craftsmanship, bridging the gap between Hampshire’s rich past and its artistic present.