Photos courtesy of the Columbus Idea Foundry
Whether they’re skilled artisans dedicated to their craft or just folks looking to learn a thing or two about woodturning or blacksmithing, visitors to the Columbus Idea Foundry can find a lot to appreciate – and marvel at.
On any given day, any number of artistic endeavors may be going on at the eclectic and innovative community workshop.
“There’s a giant talent in this town disproportionate to its population, and we’re glad to help empower it,” says foundry CEO and Founder Alex Bandar.
In 2008, Bandar, an engineer and metallurgist, realized the need for a “makerspace” after giving a guest lecture to a classroom full of art students. The students inspired Bandar to continue in the pursuit of knowledge and help others achieve a similar purpose.
Foundry member Gavin Bruce, a bronze sculptor and student at the Columbus College of Art and Design, sees the foundry as a place where ideas come to life.
“One of the big things we get from it is the community,” says Bruce. “The Columbus Idea Foundry can unlock a lot of that potential (in people).”
The foundry just happens to be the physically largest makerspace in the world, as well as a globally award-winning group. Bandar looks at Columbus as a capital of the maker movement.
“Our mission (is that) we make things or we help people make things, and we educate and empower in the design and fabrication process,” Bandar says. “We try to foster an environment that accommodates a range of people and their interests.”
With more than 200 members, these interests can vary significantly, so the foundry offers classes in a wide array of disciplines, as well as date nights and family nights. Classes range from woodworking and fine art to photography and entrepreneurship. Students, such as Bruce, find that the foundry provides them the opportunity for continued growth and education.
“It’s that stimulation of the mental and the physical and making all this come together in one spot,” Bruce says. “Every question I’ve been able to come up with, I’ve been able to find an answer there.”
Bandar is most proud of the trailblazing approach he and his team have utilized. There was no business plan or similar establishment on which to model the foundry’s founding.
“We’ve put together a social enterprise model that is self-sustaining, yet can still provide a value and service to the people of central Ohio,” Bandar says.
The foundry is located in Franklinton, and all classes are open to the public. Members receive 24-hour access to the workshop and pay a $35 monthly fee.
Elizabeth Tzagournis is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at gbishop@cityscenemediagroup.com.
Columbus Idea Foundry classes
-Blacksmithing and casting
-Electronics and 3-D printing
-Entrepreneurship
-Fashion and sewing
-Fine art and photography
-Functional arts
-Glassworking
-Jewelry
-Metalworking and welding
-Lasers and computer-controlled routers
-Software and programming
-Woodworking
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