Technical Information
Technical details of Todd Reuben's stainless steel sculptures are summarized for interested persons. A flat sheet of stainless steel (11 gauge, 1/8 inch in thickness) is employed, from which the pattern, as conceived by the artist, is cut from the stainless steel sheet using a "plasma cutter" (which literally vaporizes the metal where it is directed).
The planes are shaped by "cold hammering" (except when the plane is difficult and complex, heat must be restored to) into the form and the planes welded together by an arc welder using stainless steel electrodes. Then follows a lengthy and arduous process of refinement, involving removal of the weld beads by grinding, followed by twelve sequential steps using successively finer and finer grits of sandpaper.
The final polishing step is accomplished with a felt pad to which chromium oxide has been applied, resulting in a high luster and reflectivity, reflecting the elements of the sculpture itself as well as those of the external surroundings, thereby bringing the sculpture to life.
Artist's Statement
The endeavor to create, I believe, is the most rewarding pursuit one can undertake. Sculpting is a very challenging art form, for it deals with three dimensions, the world in which we live. To make a piece work aesthetically from every angle from which it is viewed is a significant part of this challenge.
I have chosen free form sculpting over representative or figurative sculpture because that which heightens the excitement for me is discovering and articulating a form that has never before existed; to bring something into the world that has never before been seen or experienced. It must be different and unique; this is not to be confused with novelty.
Far too often, the novelty in the art world is seen as sufficient justification for various artistic expressions. The creation must reach far beyond this level; it should offer something deep and significant that moves the viewer in a way that never diminishes with time. The qualities of beauty, grace, elegance, and a harmonious relationship between all the elements are what I attempt to achieve in all my sculptures.