Artist Jimmy Steel has been working as a diesel mechanic and a welder for a recycling company in the Tampa Bay Area for ten years. He has been utilizing the skills learned on the job for the purpose of sculpture and wearable art using recycled ‘found’ metals. His first pieces were inspired by the concept of recycling scrap steel into wearable art - belt buckles to be precise. In a short time Jimmy moved on to large pieces of sculpture, although he still crafts the occasional buckle as well. Jimmy's intuition guides his ability to see potential in scrap pieces of steel. His innovative sculptures have appeared in local businesses including Ocean Drive, King Corona, Humane Society Of Tampa Bay in Hyde Park and others . His belt buckles have been purchased by a number of Tampa Bay area residents.
Jimmy began working with steel as a sculpture medium in September 2001. He gradually added aluminum and brass into his assortment of metals. He uses ‘found’ pieces in various stages of decay and either fosters the rust to create a unique patina or grinds/heats the metal to create an exciting array of patterns and colors. He then seals each piece with a clear lacquer to ensure the life of the finish.
Jimmy continues his interest in studying the process of decay, transition of metals, the environmental affects of recycling, and conservation of natural resources.
Personal philosophy includes the concept of re-use and the recycling of discarded materials transforming them into new uses and forms. · Interested in the chemical manipulation of metals in creating finishes and colors of immense beauty.
