About

I make art from metal because it can be shiny and perfect, or raw, rough, and rusted; because it allows me to go big, and because it's forgiving, re-workable. It's flexible, and elemental. The subject matter of my work is related to the natural world, the forces of physics, and the beauty of living things. Things that I'm in love with and awed by. A career in industrial design has influenced my process - one that starts with numerous sketches that are considered conceptually, aesthetically, and as a matter of physical construction. Sometimes miniature models to study will follow. At full size, I'll work with metal by cutting, bending, welding, grinding, assembling, brazing, applying patinas, and wrapping things with string. Initial sketched out plans are rarely followed exactly to a T, because the materials themselves always have their own preferences and ideas on what to do. It's a collaboration. Precision has always come naturally to me; but I often find the most delight in the things that don't come naturally or easily. Not to downplay the considerable amount of research, planning, skill, and intentional effort involved in creating each piece, but the "happy accidents" that can happen as a result of letting go, taking a chance on a technique or form choice that might not pay off, or letting some less-controllable natural process take a portion of control, are always some of the best parts. The results from those moments can hit higher highs, better ground my art in reality, and breathe more life into my work, than my perfectionism and control alone ever get to. - Brian