"Ironhead" -- The Story

DRC Sponsor: Alan Lerstrom

Human beings have been described as "story telling animals." Thomas Johnson tells his stories through documentaries. During the meeting we will watch and discuss "Ironhead," Johnson's documentary on ironmonger Kelly Ludeking. Mr. Ludeking graduated from the Minneapolis College of Art & Design in 1997 with a BFA in sculpture and furniture design. Here he was introduced to the feral fires of iron casting and the precision of fine furniture crafting. Ludeking has participated in, facilitated and hosted over one hundred iron pours since.  In 2008 he co-founded Ironhead Sculptural Services, LLC, a traveling iron foundry that shares the art and appreciation of cast iron sculpture and performances with local community members. Dr. Johnson is an Assistant Professor of Communications Studies at Luther College. He produced his first documentary film while studying as an undergraduate. Johnson became more involved in film work during his junior and senior years at Saint John's University in Collegeville, Minnesota. From there, worked with various video production companies, as well as BBC-Wales and PBS. During his time at Luther College, Johnson has produced a series of noteworthy biographical films.