Kathleen Martell's Art .Show Submission
I’m a multi-media artist who transforms salvaged metals and found objects into one-of-a-kind sculptures. Sourced from boneyards, thrift stores, garages, and salvage lots, these materials—each with a past life—are welded together primarily using the Oxy-Acetylene torch method, along with MIG/TIG welding and other techniques.
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My Warrior Figures honor the strength and fragility of the feminine fire, while my sculptural works range from sunbursts and flowers to peace symbols, altars, and abstract forms. Many of my pieces incorporate barbed wire as a symbol of respect and strength, with adornments like glass, rocks, jewels, beads, and nature-gathered treasures adding layers of texture and story.
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Sustainability is at the heart of my work—over 90% of my materials are reclaimed, diverting them from landfills and giving them new life as art. Every piece is 100% handmade, carrying forward the energy of its past and reshaped into something new.
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What I make:
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Sculptures of welded metals adorned with found objects.
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Warrior Figures celebrate the strength and fragility of the feminine fire.
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Hanging, table top, and outdoor sculptures range from sunbursts to flowers, peace symbols to altars, and abstract forms in between.
​What makes me special:
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Whether at art shows, markets, makerspaces, galleries, or out in the community, I often hear…
“You are a welder?!”
“Women can weld?!”
“I always wanted to learn to weld!”
“Wow, is it hard?!”
“Oh! I weld, but have never welded for art.”
“My dad/brother/grandpa/uncle was a welder and I inherited their equipment.”
As a woman and as an artist, I love getting these questions and engaging with the excitement from folks who may not have met a woman welder or an artist welder before. I offer an enthusiastic bridge to learn about metal art, welding, and that women and girls can do anything! I also strongly encourage everyone, but especially women and girls to give it a try. I offer classes at a Makerspace where students feel welcome and encouraged.
At markets and shows, my booth often has an electric vibe of something new and different, but approachable and fun.
“I love my warrior! Everyday I pass my warrior as I’m getting ready to head out into the world. She reminds me of my hopes and dreams while still grounding me in my home and family. I think every woman needs one of Kathleen’s warriors. Each one is unique and speaks to its human partner in its own special way.”​
Ginny
