SAUGUS, MA - Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site partnered with students from Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt) and Visiting Lecturer in Sculpture Marjee-Anne Levine to create a new virtual gallery, I Cast Iron Because… This multimedia presentation features unique metal sculptures, artist statements, and self-made video profiles of each artist.
Located at the site of the first successful iron works in British-occupied North America, the virtual gallery brings students into dialogue with place and history to inspire artistic expression.
The featured artists are members of the MassArt Iron Corps*, a student-run group dedicated to the historic traditions and techniques of iron casting. In cast-iron plaques and artists profiles, students complete the sentence “I cast iron because…" and consider the purpose behind their artistic practice.
With personal stories, diverse narratives, and incredible sculptures I Cast Iron Because… peels back the curtain to offer visitors a glimpse at the process and passion of contemporary iron casting and the enduring legacies of Saugus’ 17th century iron works. Explore online at the main page for the gallery.
*MassArt Iron Corps is a nationally recognized student-run organization.
Find more artwork and artist stories at Mass Iron Corps on Instagram.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
