Abundant, varied, and almost always free, there are a lot of characteristics of scrap metal which lend it credence as an artistic medium. Although artists have long used ‘found objects’ in their work, scrap metal sculpting is a relatively new and niche concept. This week, we take a look at four artists who are doing some incredible things with discarded metal scrap.
Source: http://www.johnlopezstudio.com/
John Lopez
South Dakota based John Lopez is a former bronze sculptor who uses discarded farm equipment to create sculptures which recall the romance of the wild west. His subjects include bison, Texan longhorn cattle, cowboys and of course horses. Lopez says his favourite thing about working with scrap metal is the different textures the medium offers up, and the uniqueness of the final product.
Source: http://www.scrap-metal-art-thailand.com/
Scrap Metal Art Thailand
This Thailand based company has made a name for itself producing life sized movie characters such as Ironman, The Incredible Hulk, Predator and Alien as well as large scale animal sculptures including T-Rex, crocodiles, dragons, gorillas, fish, and giraffes. Scale is what this company specialises in, with some of their sculptures measuring up to 15 metres high.
Source: www. behance.net
John V. Wilhelm
By using a combination of traditional blacksmithing techniques and welding, Arizona based Wilhelm produces elegant outdoor sculptures which combine found objects such as discarded automotive and industrial parts railroad spikes with stone to create a raw, organic aesthetic. Wilhelm has been working with scrap metal since the 1970s and works in a range of other mediums including acrylic, ink, scratchboard etchings, and pencil.
Source: www.allnaturalarts.squarespace.com
Sue Beatrice
At the other end of the scale is artist Sue Beatrice, who creates miniature sculptures entirely out of broken watch parts. Often no more than a few centimetres in length, Beatrice creates dragons which can curl around your little finger and scenes which fit inside the face of an old pocket watch. Many of her designs are so intricate and delicate that they are worn as jewellery.
If you found this inspiring and think you might like to give scrap metal sculpting a try, Metal Men specialise in metal recycling in Melbourne and can set you up with all of the materials you’ll beed. To learn more about our capabilities, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us by calling 03 5941 6677.
