Embedded Files
When creating my fish, sometimes I start with a body shape, and other times I begin with a unique part and build out from there. In this case, first came the body which allowed the natural, fluid silhouette of the fish to dictate what would best bring its character to life.
The back fin is made from a air conditioner fan blade. My local metal recycler let's artists like myself explore and purchase the materials that others bring in so we can add them to our projects. I have found everything from hundreds of cookoo clock mechanisms, to most of an old airplane there.
Moving to the back fin, you will see a piece of aluminum diamond plate and an old cast iron trivet. Diamond plate often plays a role as fins, especially on larger pieces where the patterns can be seen. On this piece, the modern look of the diamond plate is paired with a vintage cast iron trivet used to connect the fin to the main body.
Here is another example of something new paired with something old. Depending on your age, you may have never had to use a car window crank to open or close a window, but that is exactaly what you see attaching the modified slotted spoon fin to the body. Those both came from the flea market, another wonderful place to find unusual pieces to add to my sculptures.
A large pewter plate and industrial plastic knob combine to create the eye of the fish. To recess the plate so it does not stick out too much, I cut a large hole into the wood obtained from a mushroom farm. Patrons seem to enjoy the various written expressions on the plates that I use for these larger fish. Half the fun is just searching for the various parts I need.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse