CROSSING THE LINE IN BLACKHEATH

HOW TO GIVE A HELPING HAND TO FIRE IMPACTED BLACKHEATH

Despite living in Blackheath for nearly twenty years, I’m embarrassed to admit that  I still make new discoveries. Hard to believe I know….it’s not exactly a huge metropolis.  In this instance it was the small business centre over the railway line in Station Street.  What a revelation.  For example, I had no idea we had such a wonderful community op shop. Actually there are two shops side by side, one selling  mainly books and vintage clothing and  the main one which is, well…… rather posh. During the recent fire crisis they generously invited those affected to visit and select items free of charge.

Next comes Plantation Shutters. I should have known  about this business, because the lovely proprietor  made the exposed  beams for my new house. And I’m hoping he will build my much longed for window seat. 

Oh, and I may need to call on Dunn Antique Restorations when it comes to furnishing the place.

But the most exciting find was artist Keith Rowe’s glass blowing studio at the far end of the complex. Amazing to think he  has been working here since 1990. His work is sold internationally and  is represented in public and private  galleries around the world.

I was intrigued to see  there was another little furnace with a billy on it, to make tea.

Keith is very happy for people to go along and watch him work. He is usually  there on Saturdays between 10am  and 2pm  and similar  hours on  several  other days during the week.  It might be wise to check first though, to avoid disappointment (Mobile No.  0414 977220).  He and his partner  Kayo  have a retail shop in Blackheath village. Kaya is a glass artist in her own right, and is also responsible for the creative engraving on many of Keith’s pieces.

If you would like to see some very special examples of Keith’s work, go along to the Plants That Bite Exhibition at the Sydney Botanic Gardens. Here is a little taste (pun intended). The exhibition runs until the end of February next year.

Keith and Kayo take inspiration from nature,  and the physical beauty  of Blackheath and the wider Blue Mountains.  How lucky we are to have them working amongst us.

UPDATE – BLACKHEATH CREATIVE

An interesting new venture has just opened over the tracks; a florist, also selling locally produced craft goods. I couldn’t resist the cards.

For more information on Blackheath Creative, click HERE.