The sculpture process begins with inspiration.  I love the forms and complexity of the natural world; I incorporate what I see into sculptures that are detailed, biologically correct within what the medium and design will allow, fun and beautiful.

Once I develop an idea, I draw an image, then create a pattern and size it to the piece I want to create.  I transfer that basic design pattern to a drawing on steel.  Since my sculptures are 3-D, there are often many layers of steel needed for the form.  After the pattern pieces are laid out, I cut the pieces with a plasma cutter.

I shape individual pieces with hammers, anvil and table vice.  For assembly of basic pieces, I use a MIG welder with shielding gas and solid wire electrode.  I weld to connect pieces together, and also to create design with the melted weld pool itself.

After these steps are complete, there is a lot of finishing to be done.  I use both bench and hand-held grinders for finishing.  Since cut metal edges tend to be sharp, this takes some time and attention.  More plasma cutting may also be needed for design details.  After all is cut, smoothed, and the finish is how I want it, I add patina.  This patina is either created by encouraging rust, or by adding steel colorant.  Finally, I seal most pieces with a matte or gloss finish.

I hope you enjoy!  Nichole Trushell