Steel sculptor Danny Salzhandler has created a rare and inventive new form of living metal sculptures. That's right--his geometric and free-form sculptures are also enclosures for miniature ecosystems. Having worked as a zookeeper, Salzhandler became fascinated with duplicating natural environments within an enclosure. With a desire to display nature in contrast to steel, he came up with an idea to craft artistic structures that frame the microcosms that make up the wildness of our world. He feverishly began creating this new form of art, which resulted in his fascinating bio-sculptures. His art stands anywhere from 12 inches to 10 feet tall.
Using common components to create fine art, Salzhandler starts the process. He begins by drawing a sketch of the geometric sculpture he has in mind. Then he cuts out templates using masonite and a jigsaw. He in turn cuts those shapes out of steel, bronze, brass or aluminum, using grinders and plasma cutters to create a fireworks show of metal and sparks. All of the pieces are fitted together, along with glass windows, and attached using a mig welder. He then cuts an opening wherever he sees fit, so that there is access to the interior of his sculpture. At this point, he adds rocks, mini waterfalls, and terrarium plants, along with the proper lighting to keep plants and animals alive. Yes, animals! Salzhandler commonly adds frogs to his artistic scenery, creating a perfect blend of art and nature.
)
)
)
)
)
)
