Showcasing Creativity in Metalworking

Grand Prize Winner: A Stunning Peacock Sculpture

Cindy Chinn, an artist from Nebraska, won the grand prize for her breathtaking 6.5-foot-tall peacock sculpture. The piece, crafted over four years, features materials like brass, copper, stainless steel, and wood. Chinn used techniques such as cloisonné enameling and copper mesh sculpting to create the peacock’s intricate feathers and iconic “eye” markings.

The sculpture’s natural rust and patina give it a unique finish, with no paint used. As part of her prize, Chinn received an Evolution chop saw, which she was thrilled to add to her workshop. Reflecting on her win, she said, “It was just one of those projects you dream of doing, and now it’s a reality.”

Other Notable Winners

The contest also recognized five other winners across various categories:

• Best Artistic and Design Project: Nancy Bole from Kansas won for her Native American bust, “The Indian,” which features intricate welding and sculpting inspired by her Cherokee and Creek heritage.
• Best Vehicle Project: James Frankland from the U.K. created a functional homemade submarine, a six-year project designed to dive up to 100 meters.
• Best Furniture and Home Project: Deborah Mitchell from South Carolina crafted “Security Doors” using brushed copper and steel, requiring over 100 hours of work.
• Best Industrial or Shop Project: Keith Broomfield from the U.K. built a four-cylinder hot air engine over five years, using materials like brass and phosphor bronze.
• Best Knife Project: Isaiah Chevalier from Alaska forged a “Snake Head Dagger” with 80 layers of high-carbon steel, completing the project in 40 hours.

Celebrating Metalworking Excellence

The winners were selected based on creativity, craftsmanship, and complexity. Metal Supermarkets CEO Stephen Schober praised the participants, saying, “It’s inspiring to see the incredible skills and creativity of metalworkers across North America and the U.K.”

The Metal My Way contest continues to shine a spotlight on the artistry and innovation within the metalworking community, encouraging both seasoned professionals and rising talents to showcase their work.