“A web of iron and shadow held inside a heavy antique frame.”
Rust & Radius started with a heavy fireplace ring a friend gave me. The moment I saw that big circle, I knew I wanted to build something inside it.
◆ The Frame: The old fireplace ring became the strong outer structure of the sculpture.
◆ The Base: A vintage metal milk crate I found at a Phoenix antique store gave the circle a solid, unexpected foundation.
◆ The Interior: I welded thin steel rods across the opening, then added individually cut steel pieces throughout the grid to create layers, depth, and negative space.
What makes this piece especially interesting is what happens when light hits it. The open steelwork throws changing shadows behind the sculpture, making the wall or space around it part of the composition.
Gifted iron. Antique Phoenix steel. Built around light and shadow.
Where It Belongs
Perfect for an entryway, living room, office, studio, covered patio, or garden. Place it near a light-colored wall or somewhere natural light can pass through the open steelwork and let the shadows become part of the piece.
The Details
◆ Dimensions: 42" H × 34" W × 13" D
◆ Type: One-of-a-kind freestanding steel sculpture
◆ Materials: Reclaimed fireplace ring, vintage metal milk crate, cut steel pieces, and steel rods
◆ Finish: Heavy natural rust patina, hand-sealed for indoor or outdoor display
◆ Signed Original: By artist Doris Plaichner
◆ Local Pickup: Free pickup available in Mesa, AZ — McKellips & Val Vista
◆ Shipping: Available throughout the USA; carefully packed for transit
One sculpture. One owner. No reproductions.
Handcrafted. One of a kind. Once it’s gone, it’s gone forever.
