Why steel for sculptures

low carbon steel known as mild steel has iron plus 0.3% carbon and is readily available in many sizes and shapes as both hot rolled and cold rolled steel. It is inexpensive compared to other metals such as bronze. Iron and carbon are among the most plentiful materials on earth. Steel is one of the most recycled materials; your sculpture may contain recycled steel from your local recycling center.

Steel is strong even in small sections making it ideal for sculptures yet it can be very ductile when heated to a forging temperature of 1700 degrees F or more. In small sections it can also be bent cold.

It is easy to machine, plasma cut, laser cut, and weld. A finished steel sculpture can accept a wide range of finishes : chemical treatment, patinas, paint, plating, powder coating, etc.

For all these reasons I have found steel to be ideal for my sculptures and a pleasure to work with.

Small sculpture creation process

PREPARATION

Mild low carbon steel , often from recycled structural steel shapes , is sawed to size then machining and plasma cutting is used to create starting features. After grinding the work is heated in a propane forge to 1800 degrees F and hammered on an anvil to create desired surface texture.

THE FORGING PROCESS

The work is heated again to a yellow heat of 1800 degrees and forged under up to 60 tons of force in a hydraulic press. This causes a spontaneous deformation into a free form sculpture. The resulting form is unique on every piece. In a way it is a magical shape shifting process that always amazes me.

FINIISHING

The sculpture is welded to a base and abrasive blasted to remove fire scale. A chemical treatment and then a hand rubbed patina is applied to create the desired color. After signing the finish is sealed and protected by a spray coat of hard clear lacquer. Up to 20 steps have now been done including the final step of adding felt feet on the base. The sculptures can be maintained by cleaning with a soft cloth, wax can be applied but is not necessary due to the protective finish.

Art Tour

This past weekend my studio took part in the annual Fall Foliage Art Studio Tour in southwestern New Hampshire. Over 50 of my metal and wood/metal sculptures were on display and for sale. A number of visitors came and viewed the work and asked questions about the construction process and equipment I use. There were good discussions about abstract sculpture and examples of how abstract pieces can complement any style home. Now that the display is still setup I look forward to more people visiting.