What material(s) do you use in your sculptures?
“Primarily steel, stained glass, and found objects such as farm implements or tools.“
What is your primary forming method?
“Welding, bending, and grinding“
What is your favorite surface treatment?
“Rust patina with a clear coat enamel, or oil finish.”
What are your favorite Tools?
“My Lincoln MIG welder, grinding tools, and auto darkening helmet.”
Describe your studio environment.
“It is about a 1500 sq foot workspace with racks of steel, welding tables that are mobile, and different sketches drawn out on the floor of past and current projects. My found objects are scattered about waiting on their second life once that time arises. This is my happy place!“
How/Where do you market and sell your artwork?
“I sell my artwork out of our gallery that is attached to my studio. We are at 18568 FM1431, Jonestown, TX. I also market through Facebook and online at RedGlassIronwork.com”
What sparks your creativity? What drives you to create?
“Nature, and architecture spark my creativity. What drives me is seeing the finished product I can visualize in my mind.“
Did you come to sculpture from a different career? Tell us about your journey to becoming a sculptor.
“I have spent the last 25 years in the insurance industry making art for myself and customers when I could. 2 1/12 years ago I left that behind and now make art full time. Sculpting has always been something I have done I would say most of my life. From making dioramas as a child, ceramics, drawing and painting in high school, and I took up woodworking, and welding after my college years. Welding of course is my preferred method now. I love creating pieces and seeing peoples reactions.“
How have you have taken your experience as a well-established maker in the field and passed that knowledge along to other artists?
“I have shown numerous people how to weld, the tools needed, and how to get into it on a budget. Biggest tip is to just try, be patient, and practice, practice, practice.”
What’s the best advice you’ve been given by a fellow maker, mentor, or teacher?
“Do what you love, “The distraction of your passion will always heal you”.“
TSOS Member Profile: Bryan J. Burke
Website: Redglassironworks.com
Facebook: BryanJBurkeRedGlassIronworks
Bio:
Bryan J. Burke is a mixed media artist and a resident of the North Shore of Lake Travis. He has been actively designing and fabricating original sculptures and unique art pieces for the past 23 years.
His primary pieces draw inspiration from some of the great architects, nature, and industry. Utilizing and balancing the materials of steel, stained glass, and other reclaimed objects, the work continues to draw your eye. He works with clients to collaborate ideas to create cohesive designs, and bring interest and focus to the desired location.
Designs include; original sculptures, unique address plates, mailboxes, home accents, custom gates, doors, and inventive functional furnishings.
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