Lee Harrelson - Metal Artisan 

In the early ’90s, photography started feeling more like a job and less like art. That’s when I stumbled upon a canvas in the back of my studio and began smudging oil paint as therapy. That playful moment opened the door to years of experimentation: from acrylics to alternative applications, and even framing paintings with copper pipe.

The real shift came later in 2020, when I rediscovered the magic of metal. A weathered copper sheet reminded me how patinas can create mesmerizing colors, and I couldn’t resist diving in. Heat, flame, smoke, and chemical reactions became my new tools, transforming copper and steel into vibrant, unrepeatable works of art. No paint, no shortcuts—just the raw alchemy of metal meeting fire.

Filling my home with these creations has been a joy, but the walls are now full. Sharing my work has become a way to connect with others and sustain this adventure. Each piece is a celebration of discovery and a tribute to the tools, techniques, and moments of reflection that make creating art so fulfilling.

Thank you for exploring my work. I hope it sparks curiosity, inspiration, or simply a moment to pause and wonder.

Click here to contact Lee via e-mail.