Wanlass Metalsmiths llc (based in Tempe, AZ) was founded by Britton Wanlass, who leverages his background and knowledge of art, chemistry and geology to manipulate and shape steel and other metals into innovative creations. You can purchase his hand forged, artisan goods here on this website or via email at britton@wanlassmetalsmiths.com.
Britton's artistic inspirations include his sculptor father (Stanley Wanlass), his McGuyverish grandfather (Glenn Wanlass), and the general beauty of the blacksmithing process.
Britton's favorite quote is from Jack London, as he feels the description and corresponding imagery produced from it reminds him of the metalworking process:
"I would rather be ashes than dust! I would rather that my spark should burn out in a brilliant blaze than it should be stifled by dry-rot. I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in a magnificent glow, than a sleepy permanent planet. The function of man is to live, not to exist. I shall not waste my days trying to prolong them. I shall use my time."
His favorite tagline is "Made by a man, not by a machine." He believes that hand-made, hand-forged items contain a character and energy not found in mass reproduced items. At the end of the day, he believes people and the items they produce matter.