But after moving to the Mott community, he discovered that his welding skills were a valuable asset in his art. He began to incorporate welding into his sculptures, creating intricate designs and patterns using metal.
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The Artist’s Journey
Bill Oberlander’s journey as an artist began in the Mott community, where he discovered his passion for sculpture. He started by creating simple sculptures using clay and other materials, but soon realized that he needed to expand his skills to take his art to the next level. It was during this time that he learned about the art of welding.
Discovering the Power of Welding
Oberlander’s introduction to welding was a turning point in his artistic journey.
The sculpture features a large, imposing figure of a fish out of water, with its body stretched out and its fins flailing wildly. The sculpture is made of steel and weighs over 10,000 pounds.
The Artist’s Inspiration
The artist, Oberlander, has stated that the sculpture was inspired by his own experiences as a child growing up in Mott. He recalls being fascinated by the Cannonball River and its unique ecosystem.
I wanted to give them something that would make them proud,” said the artist, who wishes to remain anonymous. “I wanted to give them something that would make them proud, something that would make them feel like they belong.”
The Artist’s Inspiration
The artist’s inspiration for the sculpture came from their own experiences of feeling like an outsider and finding a sense of belonging in a new community. They drew parallels between their own journey and the story of the Mott family, who had also experienced a similar sense of displacement and found a new home in the area. The artist’s personal story is one of resilience and adaptability, as they navigated the challenges of moving to a new place and building a new life. The sculpture is a testament to the power of community and the importance of feeling a sense of belonging. The artist’s goal was to create a piece that would resonate with the Mott family and the community, and to inspire others to find their own sense of belonging.
The Sculpture’s Design and Meaning
The sculpture is a large, abstract piece that features a series of interconnected circles and shapes.