The layered metal sculptures of Michael Afsa, a visual artist and designer living and working in Phoenix, Arizona, is inspired by desert, folk craft and architectural forms. According to Design Milk, "He describes them as abstracted flora or imaginary landscapes, each taking the viewer to a different world." More modern than one may expect, the layered metal sculptures more often than not take on a monochromatic palette, which makes them even more magical to look at.
Meticulously arranged, the layered metal sculptures revolve around a variety of different metals including brass and stainless steel. In addition to his original art pieces, Afsa also takes commissions. Although he has done commercial work for Quiksilver, Nixon, Scion and Apple, it is his noncommercial work that has been awarded by the AIGA and included in the California Design Biennial.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Layered Metal Sculptures
- Artists are exploring and experimenting with creating layered metal sculptures to push the boundaries of traditional sculpture-making.
- Monochromatic Palette
- There is a trend towards creating layered metal sculptures that utilize a monochromatic color palette to create a more magical and mesmerizing effect.
- Fantasy Landscapes and Abstract Forms
- Artists like Michael Afsa are creating layered metal sculptures that draw inspiration from fantasy landscapes and abstract forms, offering opportunities for innovation in the fields of art and design.
Where This Applies
- Art
- Artists can experiment with this form and mediums to create imaginative and extraordinary layered metal sculptures that can challenge the traditional notion of sculpture-making.
- Design
- Designers can explore the possibility of using layered metal sculptures to create unique pieces of furniture, home decor, and even architecture.
- Technology
- The use of advanced technologies, such as 3D printing and laser cutting, can play a role in designing and producing layered metal sculptures with greater precision and efficiency.
