All images © Matt Wilson, shared with permission
Matt Wilson (previously) has transformed found utensils into recycled metal sculptures for the last 15 years. Bending, welding, and mounting segments of cutlery upon one another, spoon bowls evoke plumage and fork prongs resemble sprawling quills. Encompassing the distinctive crown variations of birds’ heads, Wilson utilizes the unique decorative details that adorn handles of silverware. The artist obtains his materials secondhand, emphasizing, “It’s such a sustainable source with a seemingly endless supply. They’re always in stock at thrift stores.”
The Charleston-based artist teams up with his friend Jacob Kent to give a habitat to each avian, mounting them within set frameworks. “The older I get, the more fascinated I am by birds. The more I watch and pay attention to them, the more inspired I get to try different poses,” shares Wilson. Perched against an arched wooden background or resting upon a branch outdoors, each bird settles into an organic, natural surrounding that contrasts its rigid, metal form.
Wilson is always adding to the flock, so follow him on Instagram for updates or visit his website and online shop, Airtight Artworks.
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