Concept to Completion
The world of sculptured steel!
At Artemis, design, architecture and art come together to create metal sculpture and wall art that is both unique and truly stunning when viewed in the flesh. The road from concept to completion is long, but every step is exciting.
I often take inspiration from all that is around me but tend not to be satisfied with that that is readily visible. Deciding instead to delve below the surface of my subjects to explore the unseen and commence a real voyage of discovery.
From concept a number of sketches quickly follow, each one more detailed than the last. From here the process can vary.
Many Artemis creations are hand made but in recent times the use of CAD (Computer Assisted Drawing) programs have been incorporated into the fabrication process thus opening a whole new world of exiting possibilities that were once considered unachievable. So, it is then from my series of sketches that I create a CAD design. This process in itself can be considerable. Many sculptures produced at Artemis consist of multiple parts. All parts must be proportional, they must fit precisely and if it were a functional piece, it must work!
Once the design is complete the type of material or medium is chosen. This is most often 2mm – 5mm cold rolled steel. From here the design is laser cut. At this point things get really exciting.
Individual pieces are then heat treated, hand formed and shaped. I then assemble my creation with the use of a mig welder, animating the piece and giving it its unique structure and form.
It is from here that the finish to the sculpture is to be considered. At Artemis a number of finishes are used. The steel is sometimes left in its raw state allowing it to patina (rust). This provides a very earthy natural finish. Cor-ten steel is recommended if this option is used. Alternatively automotive spray applications are used. Harlequin or “flip” paints are used to good effect with the works colours shifting from blues and purples to browns and golds. Powder coating is another popular choice. A multiple of colour choices are available with this durable finish including a clear coat finish which allows a natural raw steel look but provides lasting protection from the elements.
Once the finish is determined and applied a truly unique and wondrous piece of sculpture is born.
