Barry Wheeler is a fourth-generation blacksmith who learned his art form from his maternal grandfather who was a machinist. At age five he made his first blacksmithing piece, and he continues to this day. In 2001, he began focusing on artistic blacksmithing by creating small reproductions of cannons and tanks that shoot. Additional creations are whimsical, kinetic, three-dimensional forms that interact with the viewer.

Ohio Heritage Fellowship Information
Barry Wheeler received a 2016 Ohio Heritage Fellowship for Material Culture. In addition to creating his work for sale, he is generous about sharing the techniques and historical aspects of blacksmithing. Barry’s clever sense of humor can be seen in his whimsical pieces such as the old lady in the shoe, where children are crawling over, under, and out of the shoe. In many of his moving sculptures, Barry has installed a window, which allows one to observe how the parts works. Barry is a blacksmith creating sculptures from copper, brass, or steel, using tools to hammer, bend, and cut. Also using special techniques to finish the surface to a shine. His work is detailed and flawless showing years of dedication to his art.