The intent of the Western Reserve Artist Blacksmith Association Scholarship Fund is to provide member blacksmiths and/or immediate family member of WRABA with a means of assistance toward the development of their interests, skills and abilities. Applicants for the scholarship must possess a strong desire for the continued and serious investigation of the blacksmith craft. Beginner and Novice blacksmiths must demonstrate a history of legitimate interest in the blacksmith craft and commitment to the Western Reserve Artist Blacksmith Association.
Any member in good standing of the Western Reserve Artist Blacksmith Association, who has been a member at least one year prior to his/her application will be eligible for a scholarship.
Applicants are responsible for obtaining proper information about the available relevant courses, events and workshops. Applicants for a scholarship award shall submit a written application including a description and scope of what course of study is to be attended. The application may include photographs, slides, drawings or physical examples of their work. In the event that the intended course or workshop is canceled, the recipient must submit a second choice to the scholarship committee for consideration.
Scholarship recipients shall not be eligible for another scholarship award for the next two calendar years following fulfillment of the recipient obligations and responsibilities. Scholarships will be considered for award to ABANA and SOFA conferences. Applicant members or family members under the age of 18 must have the approval signature of a parent or guardian.
Recipient Obligations and Responsibilities:
The scholarship recipient agrees to complete three of the four following obligations:
Within four months following completion of the course, conference or workshop, the recipient shall submit a written “How To” article with photos, if possible, for publication in the WRABA newsletter.
Recipients shall personally demonstrate some technique(s) learned at a scheduled WRABA hammer-in within six months following completion of the event.
Scholarship recipients may personally make and donate a completed project demonstrating course technique(s) and accumulated learned skills to be included in the WRABA “Iron in the Hat” auctions. All proceeds from such sales shall be deposited directly into the WRABA Scholarship Fund.
Recipients shall participate in three separate WRABA volunteer projects during the year. (workday, conference, demonstrations, hammer-in, outreach event, or other similar WRABA approved events at Burton or at other locations defined by the Board of Directors.
