What is metal wall art? The simple explanation is metal wall art is exactly that: art, made of metal, intended to be hung upon a wall. However, the sheer history and variety of this form of art requires a more in depth explanation that just the basics. The metal used for wall art can be reflective, colorful, or more natural shades like burnished copper or brushed steel. Sizes can vary from enormous pieces that cover an entire wall to smaller accents used to highlight other works of art or tastefully stand alone.
Metallic art can be traced back as far as the invention of the blacksmith. However, it took centuries for artists and patrons to take these beautiful, long lasting works of art to discover the use of metallic art for wall decoration. Prior to recent years, metal art was found mainly in aristocratic homes and castles. Many of the early forms still imitated today are depictions of the beauty that occurs in nature, such as trees, plants, suns, or stars. While those are most often wrought in iron or bronze, modern metal art has evolved to a much wider panorama of materials.
In modern wall art, iron and bronze are still used. However, aluminum, steel, and a variety of other metals are used. Some are used for their natural sheen, while other metals are used for their ability to retain an array of colors. Because of this variety in color, texture, shape, and size, wall art can often be customized to compliment any living space.
Another versatile element is regarding the shape and size of metal art. For those looking for a chic statement, a popular form of wall art is the triptych, or three paneled art piece. These are often less textured, but eye catching in the depth and perspective of the art. Another popular form is the flat sculpture. Flat sculptures be represented as a metallic carving of an object such as a tree, or simply geometric shapes arranged in pleasing designs. The latter is often classified as modern art, and can make a splash on any wall.
Metal wall art has survived for centuries because of its universal appeal and versatility. From pieces designed to decorate a rustic country home to stark modern pieces designed for an ultra-modern loft, few forms of art have this versatility to suit any art lover.