Upon first being introduced to smithing in 2005, Benoit started working with our islands local blacksmithing association learning the fundamentals of the art. Upon completing his education he decided to travel to England and France to learn from the master smiths there. He remained in Europe for 6 years before returning to Canada to build his own studio.
Metals, with their inherent form ability, allow for great variation in design and expression. Focusing on these attributes, the capacity for artistic design and expression is near limitless. It is these qualities that he strives to master.
Working out of his Blacksmith shop just outside Victoria near the southern tip of Vancouver Island, he creates architectural elements, artistic pieces and utilitarian articles combining design and construction elements of Europe and the West Coast. He is forever striving to push the boundaries in both himself and the medium.