This fall, five accomplished metal artists from across the United States will bring their remarkable work to Cottonwood Art Festival on October 3-4, 2026, transforming industrial materials into sculptures that are elegant, expressive, and full of personality. From hand-forged steel to reclaimed copper and futuristic titanium forms, each artist offers a unique perspective on what metal can become.

Experience the Artistry of Metal

One of the joys of visiting Cottonwood Art Festival is discovering how differently artists interpret their chosen medium. While these five artists all work in metal, their approaches couldn’t be more distinct. Some celebrate the raw beauty of forged steel. Others breathe new life into reclaimed materials or push the boundaries of contemporary sculpture through innovative techniques and visionary design.

Whether you’re an experienced collector or simply appreciate exceptional craftsmanship, the Metal category offers an inspiring look at the creativity, skill, and imagination that continue to make Cottonwood Art Festival one of the premier fine art festivals in the country.

William Colburn transforms heavy steel plate into graceful sculptures through traditional forging techniques. Every piece is hand cut, shaped over a coal-fired forge, and expertly welded into striking botanical forms and dynamic works that celebrate both strength and movement.

His monumental sculptures prove that even the toughest materials can possess remarkable elegance. 

Website

For Anthony Hansen, every sculpture begins with a story already written.

Using reclaimed automotive sheet metal with its original paint intact, he rivets and welds discarded materials into one-of-a-kind wall sculptures that embrace character, history, and reinvention. The dents, scratches, and faded colors become part of the finished artwork rather than imperfections to conceal. Website

Austin artist Rita Marie Ross creates intricate sculptures from reclaimed copper wire and tubing, weaving and brazing each strand into flowing organic forms.

Her work feels both delicate and resilient, demonstrating how sustainable materials and exceptional craftsmanship can come together to create contemporary sculpture with warmth, texture, and movement.

Website

Bold geometry, rich textures, and vibrant color define the work of Steve Cambronne. Hand-cut, welded, textured, and painted steel becomes dimensional wall sculpture that bridges industrial design and contemporary art. His energetic compositions bring architectural presence and visual excitement to homes, offices, and galleries alike.

Website

Matthew Naftzger approaches metal from an entirely different perspective, creating what he describes as “future artifacts.”

Working with titanium, steel, bronze, precious metals, and vitreous enamel, his meticulously crafted vessels and sculptural forms seem to exist somewhere between archaeology and science fiction. Each piece invites viewers to imagine objects that may have traveled backward through time.

Website

Plan your visit and meet these outstanding artists in person.  View the Artist Gallery to see all Fall 2026 participatng artists by category or name.