CRAFT IN AMERICA: Forge

Friday, July 18, 2025 at 9 p.m. on KPBS 2 / Stream now with the PBS app

"Forge" profiles artists who are working in what could be called the only tangible example of “alchemy” we have: the forging of metal – hard and soft, cold and hot, brittle and pliable – magically transformed by fire. One of the first substances used by humans, metal continues to serve, fascinate and challenge.

This episode features silversmith Chloe Darke at Old Newbury Crafters, artist Tom Pullin, Corcoran School of the Arts and Design, and sculptor Albert Paley. Through this mysterious material, they express their creativity, skill and resourcefulness. Their work ranges from delicate jewelry to monumental sculptures — all powerful examples of the metalsmith’s art.

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Albert Paley with "Counter Balance" (2013), one of 13 sculptures mounted on Park Avenue in New York City.

Courtesy of Paley Studios; John Myers photograph

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Albert Paley, "Encore," 2013, one of 13 sculptures mounted on Park Avenue in New York City.

Courtesy of Paley Studios; John Myers photograph

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Albert Paley lights a torch.

Courtesy of Mark Markley

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Tom Pullin (right) forges with instructor Davidé Prete and fellow veteran Jeremiah Holland (left) at the Corcoran College of Art + Design.

Courtesy of Mark Markley

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Tom Pullin with his sculptures at the Corcoran College of Art + Design.

Courtesy of Mark Markley

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Tom Pullin, "Rule the Truth"; made of cold steel, inkjet prints, rivets.

Courtesy of Tom Pullin

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Chloe Darke works at Old Newbury Crafters in Amesbury, Massachusetts.

Courtesy of Mark Markley

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Chloe Darke, "Wendla" 2010. Made of Sterling silver, raised.

Courtesy of Abby Johnson

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Silverware made by Chloe Darke at Old Newbury Crafters.

Courtesy of Madison Metro

The Emmy-nominated and Peabody Award-winning CRAFT IN AMERICA, now in its fifth season, promotes and advances original handcrafted work and inspires people of all ages to pursue their own creativity.

Watch On Your Schedule: CRAFT IN AMERICA "Forge" is available to stream with the PBS app.