The Beginner Welding Workshop, like many other events, was canceled due to the pandemic this past December 2020. Through determination, a loyal following and an eager instructor, it was rescheduled for May 22 and 23 in an above ground nonworking mine at Deep Creek Experimental.
Nine people participated in the workshop. Four, ranging from 13 to 17 years of age—were sponsored by One-To-One Mentoring. Several adults from Telluride participated as well. All materials and safety equipment were supplied to the students, they just needed to show up ready to create.
The students learned the process of creating a steel fire art project from scratch using reclaimed materials. Dan taught the basics of shop safety, welding basics, metal manipulation, and how to add fire elements. Materials on the first day. The students collaborated on the creation of a fire sculpture out of steel and added propane elements to the finished project, which will be on display at the 2021 event.
Not only did the group produce a collaborative work of art including flame effects, but also separate welded sculptures for themselves. Fiery Fluffy was the name given the team creation. The students tossed their name into a hat to give all a fair chance to win the group created flaming art installation, and 13 year-old Sebastian Santa Ana was the winner.
About the instructor
Dan Gundrum of Home Technology Group and Pivotal Effects taught the two-day class. Dan, a member of Deep Creek Experimental explains his craft in this way, “I look at the world and what inspires art. It stems from my impulsive desire to observe life from a different perspective. When something can be influenced in that altered perspective, art happens. That influence can be something as simple as clicking the shutter or making that grind. Pushing the boundaries of that influence makes something entirely new. Something that can transport the viewer into that altered perspective.” Says Dan, “I love teaching this class for the Festival. The reward is seeing the smiles and creativity”.
