A wood board is prepared and nail holes drilled into the board at specified points to support the desired pattern. Then screws of various sizes are added to make the 3D design.
Mark’s metal art is made using materials such as screws, nuts, and bolts. These pieces are the most time-consuming types of art that Mark creates. Each piece starts with a wood board that is measured for the number of screws needed for the design and pre-drilled. The design is laid out and mathematically calculated so that Mark knows exactly how many screws he needs of each size (ranging from 1-4 inches) and where they will be positioned to create the best 3D effect. Next, the entire board is spray painted in black. If a hand-painting technique is used, each screw is individually inserted into the board and painted on the top in a color to match the required design. Sometimes an airbrush is used to paint screws if a certain effect is desired. In this case, however, each screw is taken out and mounted on a separate board that allows Mark to paint only the head of each screw. When airbrushing is completed, all screws are removed and reapplied to the artwork. Typically a 24x24 inch piece of artwork in metals takes about 60 hours or more to complete.
Mark paints the heads of each screw individually with the desired color. The image gradually comes to life with each new color.
Mark works with clients who have a specific design in mind. The spaces are designed and mathematically calculated to determine how they can best fit on a board to give the ultimate 3D effect. He then works with clients to design their requirements for colors and shading on the artwork.
Note: Chess Boards are made using the same process for preparing the board, with each square placed at different heights for a futuristic look. Chess pieces are made out of nuts and bolts to resemble the kings, queens, rooks, bishops, knights, and pawns.
Colors are added in slightly varying shades to enhance the 3D effect.
This is a closeup of the artwork as all the colors are added.
And here is the front view of the completed paint process. A custom frame is designed and handmade by Mark to complement each art design. This frame was painted a high-gloss black for the perfect finish.