This semester in college marked the first time I have worked with metal, learning and utilizing multiple techniques of welding, including: MIG, which uses argon to heat up and bond metal; brazing, which includes heating two pieces of metal and melting brass between them, sandwiching the two pieces of metal together; and plasma cutting, which is used to get clean cuts when cutting shapes from a sheet of metal. I was scared while learning the techniques at first, making sure the professor was monitoring me the first few times I put a flaming torch in my hands. Fire, being one beast, is quite different than electricity, being almost unpredictable, and still somewhat mysterious compared to the archaic, primordial fear of fire. I soon put my fears aside and was quick to learn the procedures, however, producing my first piece that involved welding in its creation. I look forward to using my new skills to make more pieces in the future.
Pictured here are my first attempts at brazing, MIG welding and plasma torch cutting.
This is also the first time I have carved wood to create three-dimensional sculptures. Comparing working with metal, a hot, angry, and aggressive process involving fire, gas, blinding light, and sparks, is quite different from the raw, natural, calm and rugged process of working with wood. Given the choice between the two I would pick metal, as it’s a new endeavor for me, but I would prefer the less aggressive nature of wood. I did, however, hurt my self a lot more while carving then I did welding. My hands are a bit manlier now, though. A little finger mutilation builds character.
Here’s my little tribal man, influenced by Chinese mingqi burial figures.
Here’s my zoomorphic rat, also inspired by Asian art.
