As stated in an earlier article, August is American Artist Appreciation Month and this columnist has chosen to focus on American artists that use nontraditional materials in their work.
Ever heard of John T. Unger? He takes items like used propane tanks, and with a torch and a huge amount of creativity creates "Artisanal Firebowls" is various sizes and designs. Pieces of his usable art can be found in homes and public places in 45 of the 50 states and 9 countries. California is home to many of these firebowls; one can be seen by visiting Oshima Sushi in Sacramento. This Michigan artist can easily spend "over $10,000 at the scrapyard [in a] year alone" to pick up the scrap metal and tanks used in his creations. The quality and beauty of this American artist is definitely worth every penny. All of John T. Unger's work can be viewed at his website.
Folk art can take on many different styles depending on the culture of the people or person creating it. Kenny Chavez calls himself a "Recycle Folk Artist." This New Mexico folk artist uses items like weathered barn wood, baling wire, old bottles, and any other items he finds to create his unique brand of folk art. He creates wall art using antique portraits as a starting point and signs that express traditional Hispanic sentiments. His various art pieces can be viewed at his website.
Pine Blossoms Repurposed Goods takes cast-off wool clothing items and turns them into works of art for the everyday. Whether looking to adorn a fall jacket with the palest of pink brooches made from a woolen blazer or an adorable stuffed turtle in the perfect "turtle-y" shades of greys and greens, Pine Blossoms is definitely an artist in the repurposed category. All the items created by Pine Blossoms can be found on Etsy or at the Quincy Farmers Market in Plumas County on August 19.
Scrap metal, old bottle caps, baling wire, or wool scraps; all are the perfect materials for creating the great next artistic masterpiece for an American artist. Make sure you thank artists for making the world a more beautiful and interesting place this month.
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