Artist's Statement

Metal Sculptor Apryl Lea

I am a sculptor who works in both ferrous and non-ferrous metals.

Sheets of steel and copper are my canvas, and my brush is a plasma cutter. Images are sketched directly on the metal freehand, then released in a flash of electricity and compressed air.

I use traditional fabricating and metalsmithing techniques to create my art, depending on the type of metal being used.

Fabricating - cutting, welding and grinding - is done on ferrous metals like steel while traditional metalsmithing is used to manipulate non-ferrous metals like copper.  I use different types of hammers to forge or raise an image in relief.  This is called chaise and repousse' and is a traditional technique used by metalsmiths.

My art is inspired by my surroundings, experiences and the creative process and creating whimsical metalwork’s for the home and garden is my meditation. I find great challenge and joy in creating a feminine object out of such a masculine material.

My creative process is a way for me to complete my circle and is a part of my spiritual journey.

Peace,
Apryl Lea

Apryl Lea is a classically trained Metal Sculptor with a Bachelor's of Fine Arts in Metal Sculpture from Grand Valley State University.
My Story E-mail
Pet Memorial Art By Apryl LeaApryl LeaI grew up in an autoshop, surrounded by metal. Art has always been a passion of mine since I was a young girl. After graduating from high school I pursued my passion at Grand Valley State University where I graduated with a Fine Arts Degree.

I spent the next 17 years of my life on the road displaying and selling my art at art shows and festivals.

Several years ago, I settled down and began to nurture another passion of mine, dogs.

Towards the end of my vagabond artist career, I started to play Frisbee with my dogs and became a professional performer and competitor. I toured with the Super Dogs, a theatrical dog sport show for a while and dove head first into the dog sport world. 

Apryl Lea & Ron Watson of Pawsitive VybeIn 2005, my partner and I started a positive dog training studio in Western Michigan called Pawsitive Vybe, and the focus of my life shifted - it's now all about the dogs. 

We spend much of our time traveling the world helping others develop that special bond that one creates through a working relationship with their dogs.  

In late 2007, I took a full time Staff Trainer position at Paws With A Cause and am helping disabled people maintain their independence.

 

What a joy it is to be able to live my life through my passions - Dog Training, Performance and Art!