About The Artist
Derek Bastian, Metal Artist
My interest in welding art began in 2007 when I enrolled in a welding class in high school. It was evident that I had a knack for creating metal art when I started making creations in my first week of learning how to weld. Since then, I have held a career in the medical welding field for 18+ years, mastering my craft in TIG and Laser welding orthopedic instruments and implants. The decision to build a weld shop in my garage has enabled me to focus my time and abilities on creating works of art more consistently and I have dedicated my energy to the art since then.
About The Art
My focus is primarily on creating birds, spiders, cats, and other creatures but is not limited to animals alone. I utilize found objects such as used cutlery, ball bearings, and washers to create my art pieces. The primary material that I choose to work with is Stainless Steel for its shiny appearance, durability, and resistance to rust and corrosion. Stainless steel is frequently used in the medical device industry, which I have been trained in, so it was only natural for me to choose stainless as a medium. I TIG weld a portion of my work, and the finer details are done with a Laser welder, which is used under microscope. I have also recently picked up woodworking for the purpose of making mounts to attach my works to for display. I mainly use exotic hardwoods from Africa, and South and Central America and apply a minimal finishing oil to preserve the natural beauty of the woods.