Lewis Tardy’s unique style of sculpting metals evolved from his early appreciation of mechanics.

While wandering through the Bayou City Art Festival a few months ago, a unique tent caught my attention almost immediately. With a distinct shine that filtered through the crowd, Lewis Tardy's art stood out from the rest. Upon entering into the realm of his artistic mechanics, I found myself amazed by his craft and technique. His attention to detail brings each sculpture to life, while exposing its core.

Tardy uses many found objects for his artwork - primarily reclaimed or recycled metals - that inspire his shape and design. As he works, he rarely sketches anything out first but rather works by instinct. Tardy's talent is a mixture of metallic materials fused with sexuality, levity, motion, strength and attitude.

His website is a great way to see more of his extraordinary work, as well as get an inside look at his process of making a sculpture.

Below are my personal favorites from each gallery, along with a description and materials used.

Animilia

"Fast Cat" (2002) - Created from bicycle parts, wrenches, stainless braided hose, motor armatures and a variety of industrial materials.

Cranial

"Reconstruction" (2006) - Sculpture commissioned by Stryker CMF, created from Stryker titanium craniomaxillofacial reconstruction plates and screws as well as other steel and stainless steel found objects.

Introspective

"Nemesis" (2005) - Sculpture was created to hang through the center of a three level spiral staircase in the vestibule of a private residence. Over 600 knife blades make up the features of the wings.

Automaton

"Sitting with Book" (2001) - Made of bicycle parts, wrenches, surgical tools, copper wire and a variety of other industrial materials.

Velocipede

"Mounted Cyclist" (1998) - Made of bicycle parts, wrenches, flatware, roller bearings, hood ornament and a variety of industrial materials.

Here's a tour of his studio:

Content/Photography: Copyright © Lewis Tardy 2010
www.tardysculpture.com