This little bird Summers with great abundance in the States. I've always enjoyed my occasional glimpses of them because of their unusual iridescent blue coloration. In doing my research, I learned that the blue color is not as a result of pigmentation but rather through refraction of light. (Think prism). So in a sense, it is an illusionary trick which nature plays on our eyes. Drawing on this bit of knowledge and admiration, I created the illusion of metamorphosis from my medium of metal to feather.

• Artist - Alan Derrick
• Type - Tabletop Sculpture
• Medium - Urethane Paint on Steel
• Overall Size - 24"H x 9"W x 8"D
• Date - May 2008

I start with a sheet of low carbon 18 gauge sheet steel as my base medium because of its pliable nature while being hand worked and formed into compound curves, and yet it becomes strong and structurally sound when properly finished. A unique chemical layering technique is employed to give the sculptures a hand crafted, almost wood like quality beneath its surface. This same process makes the surface appear fluid upon closer observation. I then mist, spray, and splatter endless layers of exotic pearlescent and translucent paints borrowed from the custom automotive industry to create a finish that shimmers like neon saturated with nature's kaleidoscope of colors. A typical feather will have 25 to 30 layers built up over many days. Between the layers, there is a great deal of painstaking hand sanding to achieve the fine unusual candied finishes that characterize my sculptures.

The simple bird feather is thin, light, strong, and graceful. No two are just alike. All possess uncompromising beauty whether seen from a distance or studied with intense scrutiny. I find myself connected with and drawn to the organic shapes which compose their sweeping lines. Many defy conventional definitions for coloration with light refracting qualities which are unequaled elsewhere in nature. These are just some of the characteristics which I strive to capture in my work. My passion is for creation rather than production, so I always make just one, and then move on.

Like most artwork, overhead recessed or track lighting will really bring this piece to life. That is when the true beauty will come alive causing the piece to shimmer and glow like neon.

I, Artist Alan Derrick, live and work in a wooded mountain cove area of rural North Alabama, USA. I dedicate all of my time and energy to producing stylized fine art sculptures influenced by my life experiences. I routinely experiment in a variety of subject matter. My work can be found in private collections throughout the world. My archival collection of feather sculptures are only available here online direct from me, Artist Alan Derrick.

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You are purchasing an original sculpture by Southern Metal Artist Alan Derrick. We work very hard to earn and keep your trust. Your satisfaction is guaranteed or your money back.