PHOTO GALLERY: Blacksmith pursues artistic dream

Justin Tattitch uses a blower to heat the metal he is working with in early December. Tattitch owns Whiskey Barrel Forge Blacksmith & Primitive Arts in Columbia. He mostly makes tools but is starting to make more art pieces.   |  Alli Inglebright

Justin Tattitch’s blacksmithing tools sit waiting to be used. He makes most of his own tools.   |  Alli Inglebright

Justin Tattitch polishes a metal rose. The flowers are one of his specialty items at Whiskey Barrel Forge Blacksmith & Primitive Arts.   |  Alli Inglebright

Justin Tattitch holds a polished rose. He made the rose as part of a Christmas present for his mom.   |  Alli Inglebright

Smoke billows up into Justin Tattitch's face as he works at his forge. He has been working with metal for 11 years.   |  Alli Inglebright