The Steel Yard was founded in 2001 by Nick Bauta and Clay Rockefeller. They purchased the former Providence Steel and Iron (PS&I) complex in the hopes of creating a new space for artists to gather and practice age-old trades of metalsmithing and more. In collaboration with fellow artists and community members, Bauta and Rockefeller built a non-profit around the idea of connecting people to how things are made and teaching them about process.
The first major foray into programming began with the intention of furnishing local metalworkers with access to a well-equipped shop. PSI’s ornamental shop was converted into an industrial arts facility and education center. The facility and surrounding site now accommodates classes and projects in welding, blacksmithing, ceramics, jewelry, glass casting and the foundry arts.
Over the years, both the interior and exterior spaces have been used for the fabrication of products, the creation of works of art, open houses, workshops, demonstrations, exhibits, and performances. The input and assistance of the surrounding community has helped drive a grassroots evolution at the Steel Yard ensuring that its vision, curriculum, and facilities are unique and uniquely beneficial to the locality in which they work.