the essential
The Échos et Merveilles festival opens its doors to the north of Toulouse, offering a showcase of 130 artisans. Among them, Léo Charreau, blacksmith for 17 years. For him, this meeting is the ideal opportunity to share his passion by rediscovering a sometimes forgotten craft.
He could have made “Excalibur”, the legendary sword of King Arthur, or the Viking ax of King Ragnar. But ultimately, it may be your future weapon that he makes with his own hands. Him ? It’s Léo Charreau. In the excitement of the Échos et Merveilles festival, its stand stands out for its traditional craftsmanship. A passionate blacksmith, he skillfully shapes objects such as weapons and swords while delighting in passing on his know-how to a curious public in his workshop, “Zant’Art”, located in the Lot.
However, behind the flame of his cauldron-shaped forge, Léo recognizes the challenges of his profession. Although he thrives in blacksmithing, this artistic ironworker admits that it is difficult for him to make a living solely from this craft. “I also carry out ramps and other projects to meet my needs, otherwise I would have to have a shop in the heart of the city of Carcassonne to allow me to only make and sell medieval objects,” confides -he.
Blacksmith: a forgotten profession?
Despite everything, the blacksmith bears witness to the gradual rebirth of his profession, once neglected. “There was a time when being a blacksmith was a rarity. I learned my trade 17 years ago self-taught by finding information on the Internet. Although I must say that today, times are changing,” smiles Léo Charreau. He particularly highlights the renewed interest in traditional trades, particularly after the fire at Notre-Dame de Paris, where blacksmiths regained a central place.
And then for those who would blend into the landscape if we jumped back several centuries, “being a blacksmith in the Middle Ages allows you to remain a big kid,” he laughs.
Beyond the festive aspect, Échos et Merveilles plays a crucial role in the preservation and promotion of ancient trades and the passion that results from them. Léo Charreau, like a fire keeper, hopes that these gatherings will help revive forgotten professions and spark new vocations.
Where to find “Zant’Art” at the festival?
In the heart of Le Bascala park, opposite the concert hall and slightly elevated, is Léo Charreau’s stand, from May 8 until May 12. In front of a large tent, “Zant’Art”, the blacksmith’s playground will expose visitors to the very essence of his work and all in disguise. Several medieval objects will be available for sale. It will also offer activities and moments of exchange between enthusiasts of medieval fantasy or blacksmithing, all centered around its forge which is out of the ordinary and on the traditional side, because it is in reality a cauldron which was given to her by her witch friends. The ideal circumstances to stay in the fantasy theme.
