Out of Reach
This piece began with a rough design concept and an attempt to improve my aluminum welding proficiency. I ultimately became frustrated and deliberately utilized artistic license to create the sloppiest welds possible. This gesture became the foundation of the piece, calling into question who or what is to blame, the artisan or the tools. The only machine capable of welding aluminum I have access to is a slightly antiquated TIG rig from many decades ago. It performs decently well for the most part, though certainly not an ideal setup for certain applications. The act of welding through subversion of the desired outcome was part of the intention all along. By asserting dominance over the machine in this way I am attempting (perhaps unsuccessfully) to regain lost control.