Simon Lavaud is a blacksmith and cutler in Vénosc, in the commune of Les 2 Alpes. He makes knives by hand, offering his customers unique pieces.
Simon Lavaud was not destined to become what he is today. But one meeting changed everything.
8 years ago, Simon and his partner bought a house. In the garden is a century-old forge.
At the time, Simon had been a rope access technician for 20 years, but was beginning to lose interest in his job.
Trained by Jean-Dominique Susini and Didier Papot
When he walked into the forge in his new garden, it clicked. "I knew straight away that this was what I wanted to do. A real favourite.
For over a year, Simon immersed himself in the ancestral art of forging, working with renowned Corsican craftsmen such as Jean-Dominique Susini and Didier Papot.
They pass on much more than techniques to him and instil in him the passion, the know-how inherited from generations.
Armed with these valuable lessons, Simon set off on his own adventure and launched his own business.
He not only creates knives, but also generously shares his expertise.
Keeping the blacksmith heritage alive
He opens the doors of his forge free of charge and offers tours to share his passion for forging. "To preserve this endangered ancestral craft.
For him, "Every moment spent passing on his art is a victory against oblivion.
Working exclusively by hand, he forges unique pieces with unrivalled meticulousness and precision.
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He doesn't mass-produce, preferring to spend hours on each knife, making it a truly unique piece.
Its only showcase outside of visits is the Festival of Cutlersin Vallorbe, where he proudly displays his creations.
Pieces for renowned restaurants
Simon Lavaud also works with restaurants to produce unique, functional pieces.
Backed by its expertise and craftsmanship, it has worked closely with renowned establishments such as "Le Chalet Mounier and Le Diabe au CoeurEvery room has been carefully thought out.
Knife design is the artistic aspect of his work. It's in creating that his personality shines through in shapes that appeal to him and to his customers.
"Some knives are the result of previously developed sketches, while others take shape spontaneously, guided by the inspiration of the moment and the fruit of my imagination".he confides.
Today, in his forge, every hammer blow tells the story of a bold reconversion. Simon Lavaud embodies the power of passion and the beauty of craftsmanship.