Blending Fine Art, History, and the Outdoors with Traditional Craftsman Eric Ewing

Eric Ewing at the CLA Show, 2019. Photo Courtesy of the Contemporary Makers Blog

Eric Ewing at the CLA Show, 2019. Photo Courtesy of the Contemporary Makers Blog

Today we’re talking with Eric Ewing about his traditional leatherwork and how he got into the traditional craft, hunting and more. He's always been interested in history, in part thanks to his Mother and family love of classic movies. Eric Graduated from the Manhattan School of Fine Arts in 2002 and wasn't sure where to take his skills. he painted off and on for many years, but nothing really stuck. In 2013 he created his first bag, a copy of "The Virginia Bag" as featured by Wallace Gustler. As of 2020, he's made 200 bags.

Get 10% at the NMLRA store using the code "Podcast10" This week's episode is brought to you by Dixie Gun Works. Dixie Gun Works and their annual catalog have been a staple for black powder enthusiasts for generations.

A selection of Eric’s work from 2019

A selection of Eric’s work from 2019

Get 10% at the NMLRA store using the code "Podcast10" 

This week's episode is brought to you by Dixie Gun Works. Dixie Gun Works and their annual catalog have been a staple for black powder enthusiasts for generations. Find out more at Dixiegunworks.com

It was great to hear about his work, but also everything he's trying to do to encourage young makers to improve their work and get out in front of people. He organizes critiques and helps introduce new artisans to older ones they might be intimidated to approach. Eric's work varies from piece to piece. One may be a lovely gentleman's pouch, and the next a rough cut homespun bag with a coonskin flap. Last year he was the subject of a Contemporary Maker Portrait on the Contemporary Makers Blog by Art and Jan Riser.

Follow Eric on instagram for updates on his work, hunting trips and more  @forest_and_fowl

We’d like to thank the CLA Show as well as Art and Jen Riser for their work to promote traditional craftspeople through the Contemporary Makers Blog. 

Find out more about the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association at our website - NMLRA.org

Muzzle Blasts on Instagram 

NMLRA on Facebook

NMLRA on Youtube

Muzzle Blasts Podcast

A special thanks this week to the guys at Primitive Pursuit for sponsoring the podcast! Primitive Pursuit was founded in 2017 to  be an outlet for learning experiences as a traditional bowhunter.  The  truth is, someday’s it will throw you to the wolves.  However, when the  gap is closed and you’re finally able to take your shot, it’s all worth  it.  Everything comes together.  Though we’re relatively new to the  game, we feel it is our duty to help those that may go through similar  successes and failures.   We truly believe traditional bowhunter’s are  among the best hunters in the world.

We couldn't have this conversation, the podcast or anything here at  the NMLRA without the support of our members. Everything we do is made  possible because of their generosity. Thank you.

Find out more about being a Member