Ben works as our kit developer and Senior Artificer. Growing up between Scotland and Florida it was his time in Florida as a teenager that Ben began to learn Historical Crafts under the expert guidance of master craftsmen, when it was time for him to move on he promised to continue his learning and more importantly to pass on what he had learned. This time also inspired a love of history which he pursued when he returned to his native Glasgow for University where he studied History, Celtic Civilization, War Studies, and Archaeology and earned an MA and an MLitt. While at University he founded the Academy of Historical Arts and Triquetra Services (Scotland), when not teaching HEMA he was teaching various historical crafts staying true to his promise.
Teaching crafts for a start up charity Ben developed his ability to source difficult materials to allow students to not only complete a historical craft but to complete one that was of particular beauty or suitable for active use in the case of weapons and shields for Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA). While in Scotland Ben's style developed with clear historical inspiration but allowing his own creativity to show through. His work was featured in fashion shows, museums, and galleries.
Upon his return to the USA Ben founded the Palm Beach Sword School and although its primary focus remains the teaching of Historical European Martial Arts, his students regularly take part in historical craft classes, especially the targe making class. It was with the help of his current students that he developed the Targe Kits that we sell here at Historical Crafts. Ben continues to live and work in Florida, and visits Scotland whenever he is able. He has always worked hard to keep his promise and has never stopped learning all he can, and teaching all he knows, with the hope of passing on these skills to future artificers.
Ben Kerr
BEN'S PORTFOLIO
