Metal sculptor Kari von Wening started with Intaglio printmaking but was so drawn to the zinc plates that she began riveting used ones together to form sculptural objects. Not satisfied, she searched for more flexible options, eventually fixing on scrap metal to get more choices in surface texture, color, and form.
The process entails carving out shapes with a plasma cutter (an electric torch), then welding these pieces together. Sometimes, I add acid to further enhance the rusting process. I then add color by the layering of inks and spraying acrylic enamels. The fine-tuning comes with Stabillo pencils. I seal each piece with a clear acrylic coating to keep it in an arrested state of decay and to preserve the color. -Artist statement
Von Wening’s moths are the focus of this post, but she also does musical instruments, clothing, metal paintings, bark and leaves. The California-based artist has an M.A. in intaglio and an M.F.A. in sculpture from U.C.L.A.
See more on her website, here.
I just pinned your work. Do you sell these?
Hi – Glad you like them. Go to her website to contact her. The link is at the end of the post.
Oooo – I just did that suck-in-my-breath thing again! Love these!
I love her whole portfolio, but I only had room for the moths.
I love that she uses some recycled materials and creates something so beautiful form them!
I agree with you, especially the licence plates.
Man these are beautiful!!!
These are some of my all time favorite sculptures, agree. Love the textures.
So excited to find Kari’s art getting attention again! Love her work, especially the many pieces we live with!!! Hi Kari!
Well she should be getting attention. Wonderful work. I envy you living with her pieces.