Client: Baker McKenzie Law Firm, Houston, TX

Overview

“Big Brass Bayou” (2014) represents a site-specific wall sculpture commissioned by Kinzelman Art Consulting for Baker McKenzie in Houston. Crafted to fit seamlessly within three niches, each measuring 206 x 96 inches, this bespoke sculpture is meticulously fashioned from acid-cut brass, boasting a brilliantly polished mirror finish. Comprising a total of 91 pieces of mirror-polished brass, “Big Brass Bayou” is an abstracted amalgamation that captures the essence of a winding wetland. Although the overarching composition and imagery are born from the artist’s creative realm, the underlying inspiration draws from the lush Buffalo Bayou in Houston, along with its indigenous river vegetation and blossoms.

Goals

The objective entailed crafting a wall sculpture to adorn the three alcoves of Baker McKenzie's fresh office setup in Houston, TX. Deliberately opting for polished brass as the medium, I embraced its timeless and stately allure, a fitting match for the ambiance of a legal firm. In accordance with the client's wishes, the design sought to establish a connection with the local natural surroundings. Guided by this, I derived inspiration from Houston's Buffalo Bayou. My intention was to create a design that flowed like a meandering stream while harmonizing with the architectural boundaries. The finished artwork entices visitors to traverse its path, engaging in a visual dance with the reflections cast by its mirror-polished surface. This interactive piece encourages observers to embark on a visual journey, inviting them to explore the piece's intricate interplay with light and space.

Process

The original artwork took shape in the studio, born from the meticulous art of hand-cut paper. The intricate forms emerging from those paper silhouettes underwent digital transformation for further refinement. The finalized outlines found their place within a 3D computer model before being masterfully realized through the use of meticulously polished brass sheeting.

My process for cutting metal is very unique. As opposed to laser cutting, which can warp and burn delicate pre-finished metal, I use a process called photo chemical etching. PCE is a completely non-destructive process, producing perfect, pristine cuts. Making large-scale artworks in this way is completely novel. My studio has developed this process with a local vendor, and remains a hallmark of my esthetic.

Additional Information

My process for cutting metal is very unique. As opposed to laser cutting, which can warp and burn delicate pre-finished metal, I use a process called photo chemical etching. PCE is a completely non-destructive process, producing perfect, pristine cuts. Making large-scale artworks in this way is completely novel. My studio has developed this process with a local vendor, and remains a hallmark of my esthetic.