Pepe & Paco Garrido

Iron in the blood

• Pepe and Paco have iron forging in their blood
• They learned the trade from their parents and grandparents
• Renaissance art stimulates them

The Garrido brothers are the sixth generation of forgers who, over time, have achieved a series of awards for their craftsmanship. They mix the tradition of craftsmanship with new technologies. They prioritise the craft of artistic forging, as well as the recovery and restoration of the historical heritage related to the sector. Their works have a high decorative and functional sense. Their specialties are carving, chiselling and iron moulding. Their region of Úbeda, in southern Spain, has greatly influenced their work, as well as the Renaissance and the contemporary work of various artists. For them, something well done means feeling personal satisfaction for the work done. The craft, according to the Garrido brothers, must be lived, felt and carried within. One of the reasons why they dedicate themselves to this profession is because of its link to art and the possibility of creating unique and creative pieces.

Interview

©Yolanda Garrido

©Yolanda Garrido

What is little known about your work?

We use the traditional forge, carving, chiselling and moulding of iron. But what few people know is that we use coal forges and work with the hammer on the anvil in the traditional way as it was done in the past.

What are your influences?

Úbeda and the Renaissance adapted to the 21st century. The territory also influences not only us but also the five generations of craftsmen who preceded us. Our family has always been closely linked to our region.

What kind of satisfaction does your work give you?

Lately, we have been pleased to see the excited faces of the people with disabilities we visit when public or private bodies ask us to develop a project. Such anecdotes are very satisfying.

How do you combine the modern and the traditional in your work?

Avant-garde and innovation are expressed in the design and new technologies. On the other hand, tradition is expressed in the forge, where we use ancestral techniques that we have been able to maintain despite the passage of time.

Pepe & Paco Garrido are expert artisans: they began their career in 1979

Works

©Yolanda Garrido

©Yolanda Garrido

©Yolanda Garrido

©Yolanda Garrido

Where

Experiences

Guided tours of a traditional iron forge in Úbeda

1 Hour

18 EUR per person

Visit a traditional Úbeda forge

1 Hour

Free