What is the process of creating a sculpture from the beginning stage to the completed piece?                                                            

The idea is the most important single element of any project.  Once the concept is visualized, drawings follow.  A production plan detailing how to construct the piece will be drawn up. 

Assembling all the materials and cutting out the steel facilitates easy access to all the elements that are needed for the next phase of production - shaping.  Depending on the complexity of the final form the metal is either shaped cold - directly with brute force - or by forging - heating up the steel and hammering it on the anvil or into specially made jigs. 

The shaped pieces are then permanently joined together by MIG welding.  MIG (Metal Inert Gas) was developed to make secure and continuous welds.  A metal wire forms a consumable electrode that is continuously fed into the molten “bead” during the welding process, giving the impression of squeezing liquid metal out of the torch and into the weld.  Grinding, filing and sanding are used to make detailed embellishments and texture.  Lastly, depending on the type of metal used, a painted finish or a chemical patina is applied to add color and resist weathering.

How long does it take you to make a sculpture?                                     

It takes days and sometimes weeks of focused work to make a steel sculpture - depending on the size and complexity of the piece. Employing traditional blacksmithing techniques along with a variety of innovative bending methods to shape the steel slowly yields results.  Some pieces flow to completion intuitively, an experience that transcends time and fatigue.  Some artists refer to this as the “perfect place” when everything in the world melts away and one’s concentration is completely focused on the act of creating.

Where do you get the steel used to make your pieces?                                      

 All of the steel I use for my sculpture is recycled or reclaimed and comes from a scrap yard or junk pile.  Occasionally I will use a piece of “new” material when the sculpture’s proportions are so large that suitable scrap is unobtainable, but I predominately rejuvenate discarded metals to recycle, eliminate waste and stay as “green” as possible.

Do I have to do anything to the sculpture to keep it from rusting?                                         

Stainless steel, bronze and Cor-ten steel are impervious to weathering and will last indefinitely in an outdoor setting - with these materials you don't need to do anything.

If your piece is made of conventional steel, has a painted finish and is kept outside, eventually the paint will need to be protected from weathering.   A yearly application of spray varnish or clear lacquer, available at any hardware store or Home Depot, will repel moisture and maintain the original appearance of the piece.  If you prefer to let the metal oxidize naturally, you don’t need to do anything but enjoy watching the steel slowly change to a reddish burnt sienna earth tone.  Don’t worry, the steel will not disintegrate and fall apart, the oxidation will affect only a small layer of the surface.  If you live by the ocean the sea salt will hasten corrosion and a more permanent metal is recommended.

How do you sign your work?

Each sculpture is hand-signed using a MIG welder to create an original signature on the base or back of the steel.  It becomes part of the base metal and is indelible.  I can also provide you with a statement of authenticity as proof of provenance and for insurance purposes.

 

Are the sculptures pictured on your website available for purchase? 

Many of the pieces seen here on the site are still available for purchase. Email or call me with your questions about availability.

 

 

What is a sculpture commission?

Commissioning a sculpture can sometimes be intimidating for a collector.  A commission is an agreement made between a collector and an artist to create a custom piece.  Collectors may consider the potential for an increase in the value of their piece as the artist’s reputation grows.

How do I commission a sculpture?                                                         

Simply click here and fill out the message form or email me at Livesteel@gmail.com.  We will discuss your project's placement, size, materials, and cost.  A detailed drawing of the sculpture will be made.  This final drawing serves as a “blueprint” for the commissioned piece.