Metalwork is an ancient art. The works of Philip Brainard is where the past and present meet. Sculpture, patterns, and molds are hand-crafted and individually poured. Among his numerous credits and awards, Philip cofounded Phoenix Studios Art Glass & Bronze in Santa Barbara, California, USA in 1975.
Despite the use of some modern aids, bronze casting in this manner forms a link with the past. Philip Brainard was one of the first artists of his generation to “take art out of the galleries and out into the streets”. His impressive range of large and small-scale, project-specific sculptures are represented in public and private collections locally and internatially in homes, libraries, restaurants, and hospitals. Philip is passionate about art as a means of communication. His artistic ability and methodology allows him to create in ways many cannot envision. His passion for hammered details bring unique rustic characteristics to his work. He implements traditional blacksmithing techniques as a springboard for exploring the creative potential of forged iron. “All of his work is appropriate to the site, geographical location, landscape, the occasion, and the raison d’etre of the commission.”
Hand-iron shaping has always been a combination of usefulness and art, and Philip has an artistic vision for renewals. For Phil, the challenge consists in the wish for giving modern aspects to old, bringing forth the forgotten cast bronze and hand-formed glass by designing exocentric lamps as inspired by the amazing works of Tiffany, Stuben, Quezell, and Rodin.
His personal desire is to transform typical home decor into sculptural works of art. Using bronze, wood, copper, glass and lighting, he provides his customers, decorators, and architects with distinctive taste, a timeless architectural creation that compliments any home or business. Each item is personally hand-crafted with the highest quality materials and time-honored craftsmanship. As with nature, all of Philip’s works, even those of similar style, are truly unique. Philip’s work exudes a sense of pride and craftsmanship that is his hallmark.