I like variety in the media of my public artwork for the sake of contrast, interest, and the image. I usually mix metal with wood, not only for the texture, but for the different qualities in the two which enables me to make and/or engineer shapes that are not controlled by the medium, rather the medium enables the shape.

Color is often selected for the sake of the artwork rather than representing the image true to life, so it provides a decorative function over a representational one.

I have used painted wood relief most often over the years. It gives me the opportunity to separate shapes, give them a dimension, and because I usually use wood, to add a texture as well. The color is a combination stain/wipe of Artist grade alkyd oil colors. This technique provides the color as a solid and yet also act as a transparency.

Combining cut out shapes from wood and metal adds even more texture and I use this where the viewing is close up. In this sample the artwork is in the hallway of an elementary school so the kids can get close and examine details as well as run their hands along is as they walk down the hall.

One commission required sound proof materials so I made shapes from acoustic panels and embellished them with high polished aluminum and reflective, holographic acrylic.

I often include wood carved shapes as part of the work. In this case it is a full scale bald eagle.

For more intimate commissions I will use high polished non ferrous metals like brass and copper. This would be for viewing close, up to three feet.

Aluminum, either painted or natural finish are often used for hanging designs where weight is a factor. In many ways aluminum can be used as wood which helps bridge the two media.