Susan Madacsi

"Although steel is usually considered an industrial material, I like to draw attention to it on a human level by creating objects that reveal organic forms. My work is the result of my desire to use steel as a substrate for texture and form and as a palette for exploring color."

Madacsi uses both traditional and contemporary blacksmithing techniques to design and create works in steel, copper, and bronze. When steel is heated to temperatures of up to 2400 degrees, it can be manipulated in the same ways as clay. Madacsi explores and pushes the plasticity of the material in this hot state, achieving a variety of layered textures and patterns.

Madacsi begins a piece by making a multitude of elements to work with, then intuitively arranging the pieces until she has a composition that captures an element of beauty. After forging the individual elements on an anvil using hammers and other tools, she then assembles them by welding or using joinery techniques. Finally, she applies aerosol enamel paint and uses a variety of techniques to distress the surface. By using pigments, she finds that she is able to emphasize the many textures that evolve from forging.

Susan Madacsi received a BFA from Boise State University with an emphasis on sculpture. Her award-winning artwork has been shown in exhibitions across the country.