BLOG – A VISIT TO A MASTER CRAFTSMAN

On Friday 21st June 2019 I had the pleasure of visiting the workshop of Iain Broadbent –   who is commissioned as part of our Bigg Market project to hand carve 3 replacement decorative consoles for 44-48 Cloth Market.

Attempts were made to use modern technological solutions combining photogrammetry and 3D modelling to enable CNC (computer numerical control) production but due to the age and condition of the existing intact console it was not possible to obtain accurate information.

The solution therefore was to revert to the original, tried and tested method of hand carving the replicas using a combination of 2D drawings, photographs and site measures.

After an extensive search, Iain Broadbent was procured to carry out the works. Iain’s workshop is – rather fittingly – located just outside of the medieval city of York in the picturesque village of Heslington.

During my visit Iain gave me a potted history of his career to date and the fascinating links to Newcastle’s past….

Iain is a time served specialist in architectural and furniture wood carving and has spent two decades honing his craft. His career began under the tutelage of Dr Dick Reid OBE, a famous son of Newcastle upon Tyne – Reid’s accomplishments are much celebrated and highlights include, his work to restore Windsor Castle following damage by fire, The Sanctuary at Highgrove and Carlisle Cathedral.

More on Dr Reid OBE – here

The impressive lineage doesn’t stop there as Reid himself served his apprenticeship in the Studios of Ralph Hedley (Craftsmen) Ltd of Newcastle. Hedley’s work is prominent throughout the City today and the carved choir stalls in St Nicholas’ Cathedral serve as a truly outstanding exemplar of his craftsmanship. Keeping it in the family, Hedley’s son, Roger, famously carved the replacement head of Earl Grey atop Grey’s Monument following a lightning strike during WWII.

More on Hedley – here

During the site visit Iain talked me through the intricate process from first viewing to finishing touches. Iain is relentless in his pursuit for excellence and talks with fervour about his craft. The trip to York was intended as a progress meeting but I found myself enthralled by the process, attention to detail and enjoyment derived from this almost forgotten art.

His commission is due for completion later this month and the installation will follow shortly after. The pieces are one small part of a major regeneration project but their significance and their back story is in itself worth celebrating.

Alex Slack,

Bigg Market Project Manager