The Artist-Blacksmith's Association of North America (ABANA) is dedicated to promoting blacksmithing as a hobby & profession. The Artist-Blacksmith’s Association of North America (ABANA) is dedicated to perpetuating the noble art of blacksmithing. A blacksmith is one who shapes and forges iron with hammer and anvil. ABANA encourages and facilitates the training of blacksmiths; disseminates information about sources of material and equipment; exposes the art of blacksmithing to the public; serves as a center of information about blacksmithing for the general public, architects, interior designers, and other interested parties.